A MEMORIAL bench, which has become a focal point for anti-social behaviour in Callington, will not be removed, town councillors decided last week.

Residents of Well Street had requested that the council remove the bench to discourage the congregation of crowds of youngsters who 'have little regard for those people who live in the vicinity'.

In the latest incident two weeks ago the bench plaque was forcibly removed and found in a nearby garden by one of the residents, they said. Various complaints had been made to the police and environmental health department.

But councillors said removing the bench would not be the answer. They agreed that this would be a last resort after pursuing the problems of anti-social behaviour with the police and relevant authorities.

Cllr Denise Winfindale said: 'This is a memorial seat and a seat put there in someone's memory should not be removed. It is not the seat's fault but the environment around it.

'A lot of people walk up Well Street and may need a rest. There are also some elderly residents who live around that area.'

Cllr Andrew Long said anti-social behaviour was endemic in society and unfortunately removing the seat would not solve the problem: 'I suggest we put this request in abeyance and see if we can address the issue with the relevant parties.'