ACTION is being taken to help stop anti-social behaviour in one of Tavistock's main car parks.

West Devon Borough Council and the police are working together to tackle the problem.

There have been complaints from the local community about night-time disruption in Bedford car park, which is owned by the borough council.

Some drivers have been congregating in the car park in the evening and causing a nuisance.

Their anti-social behaviour has included revving engines loudly, playing car stereos at full volume, accelerating around the area and using foul language.

In response, police have mounted patrols during the evening. 

Officers are carrying out spot-checks to see if cars have a valid MoT and tax certificate. Drivers are also being asked to produce the correct insurance documents.

Sgt Dave Anning at Tavistock police station, said: 'Most young drivers just want to park up and socialise and they cause no problem. Unfortunately, a few selfish ones disturb the neighbours. The actions of the minority make it harder for other young drivers to find somewhere to meet.

'We are gathering details of the cars involved in any incidents and writing to the vehicles' insurer and registered keeper. Drivers should ask themselves, "Would I do this outside my family home?" If not, don't do it.'

Environmental health officers from the borough council have also been using special equipment to monitor the noise levels coming from the car park at night.

Cllr Robert Oxborough, the council's member with responsibility for community safety, said: 'Some of the drivers using Bedford car park in the evening may be having fun but their behaviour is far from amusing to the local community. 

'They have been thoughtless and it is time they got the message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in the council's car parks.'

The borough council is warning that if drivers causing a nuisance do not change their ways, formal action will be taken against them.

Anyone worried about anti-social behaviour can contact the council's community safety officer: