RESIDENTS fighting to get a playground shut now have the backing of Michael Wills, MP for north Swindon.

People living in Jefferies Avenue, in Gorse Hill, say the playground, which backs on to their houses, has become a haven for unruly youths.

And, as previously reported, in the Advertiser, they say the only way to tackle the problem is to pave over it.

Father-of-two Graham Carter, has since received an encouraging reply from Mr Wills, who is backing the residents' calls.

Mr Carter, a former Evening Advertiser employee, said: "I have children aged nine and 11 and I would never dream of letting them play there.

"The MP has been very supportive of us and he has contacted John Short, director of Swindon Services requesting the playground is shut."

The problems include under-age drinking, drug abuse, sexual activity and swearing.

Mr Carter says residents have made several attempts to get Swindon Council to close the park, but all have failed.

So, as a last resort he he has written to the MP Michael Wills.

Mr Wills said: "The problem is that the park is too enclosed.

"I have been to visit Mr Carter and it does look as if the only way to solve the problem may be to close the park."