AMESBURY councillors want residents who live in and around the open space at Harvard Way to form an action group and help shape the future of this area.

They would like people to step forward and take the lead on what should be built there to develop the ground as an amenity for people of all ages - not just the young.

Councillors would also want anyone volunteering to help monitor vandalism and littering, as these are of particular concern.

Speaking at a meeting of the town council on Tuesday last week, Councillor Margaret Strange said that, every time she had visited the site, she had found broken bottles left by late-night drinkers.

"It isn't dreadful but it's there and it's a hazard," she said.

"It's such a shame because it's a beautiful area.

"However, there's just nothing to encourage people there.

"Perhaps we could put some seats along the edge to enhance the site.

"People might then sit for a while and start to appreciate it a bit more."

But deputy mayor John Noeken said this might not be what people wanted.

He thought the best way forward would be for a residents' group to form and let the council know what they would like done.

He said: "I had hoped by now that some sort of residents' forum would have got together, so we don't fall back into this nightmare of people just writing to the Journal to complain, rather than come to us.

"If we are thinking of doing anything, then we ought at least to leaflet all the properties and make sure everybody is consulted.

"But perhaps the best way forward is to persuade a few residents to take the lead on this, so we can work together."

Anyone interested in knowing more about forming or joining a residents' group, and what would be expected of them, should contact the town clerk, Howard Piner, on 01722 417444.