Hertsmere Halloween activities could combat bad behaviour

During October half-term, residents of Hertsmere can benefit from a range of free activities that are being put on for children of the borough. A number of local organisations have teamed up to ensure that children have plenty to do throughout the week and to reduce the risks of anti-social behaviour that is often linked with the Halloween season. Hertfordshire Constabulary are joining forces with Hertsmere Council to provide activities to children within Bushey. All of the activities are to be free, in order to encourage participation and to make sure that parents don't have to worry about the extra costs that can sometimes arise during half-term. Police community support officer, Esther Ainsley works in the Bushey area and helped to arrange the activities. She said that the activities have been devised to give children something fun to do at a time of year when they are often tempted to misbehave. Not only are the activities great for children, but the arrangement could also help to reassure local residents that any anti-social behaviour will be kept to a minimum, Ms Ainsley continued. Children will be able to take part in activities, which include a gladiator arena and bungee run, between Wednesday October 30th and Sunday November 3rd. All activities will run between 11am and 3pm at the King George Recreation Ground. The advised age range for the events is between 11 and 18, but all ages are welcome to join in with the free activities. In order to provide the activities at no cost to residents, they are being funded by the Ward Improvement initiative Scheme, with two local councillors donating money from their allowances for local projects. The council's parks department is providing Ј500 toward the events, along with the Hertsmere Community Safety Partnership.  Councillor Charles Goldstein, Hertsmere Borough Council's Community Safety Portfolio Holder, said: "The majority of young people in Hertsmere do behave responsibly but unfortunately it is common across the country for there to be a spike in anti-social behaviour and disorder incidents at this time of year. "We hope young people enjoy Halloween and Guy Fawkes Night but stay safe and take advantage of these activities. I'd encourage them to think twice if they are tempted to get involved in any silly pranks that can spiral quickly out of control or any other type of anti-social behaviour." -

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