SECURITY patrols have been laid on and fencing installed in a bid to stop youths risking their lives at a reservoir.

Residents of Pickup Bank and Waterside have complained to the police about teenagers entering the private land at Pickup Bank reservior, also known as Dowbow.

They are putting up tents, lighting camp fires and swimming in the water.

The water and surrounding land belongs to United Utilities, which has sent rangers to monitor the situation and installed a new fence.

But residents said this had not provided a solution as there was still a gap in fencing they believe needs closing.

East Rural councillor Julie Slater said: “Not so long ago a lad nearly drowned up there.

“The residents are very worried about the safety aspect, and the nuisance element.

“People are coming from Roman Road and Belthorn, so they’re not necessarily local people. They’re out of the way and no-one can see what they’re up to.

“There are gaps in the fencing from Roman Road that need to be sealed off, and we have asked United Utilities to do this.

“The police have been very good, but they can’t have someone up there all the time. Somebody could lose a life.

“Reservoirs are the most dangerous places to swim.”

As well as fenceing Coun Slater called for extra enforcement. “I think fines need to be handed out,” she said.

“A few people need to be made examples of so that the message spreads not to go there.”

A spokesperson from United Utilities said: “We are very concerned that teenagers have been breaking into the reservoir site, which is not open to the public.

“As well as causing a nuisance to residents, these people are potentially risking their safety, swimming in the water.

"We have put up fencing and signage, and set up security patrols.”