Youths warned to stay away from hazardous, derelict building (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Reckless youths are putting their lives at risk, warn police

8:20am Tuesday 23rd October 2012 in News By Barbara Jordan

RECKLESS youths are putting their lives at risk breaking into a hazardous derelict building, warn Runcorn police.

Teenagers have been vandalising the former Department of Employment offices in East Lane, opposite Halton Lea shopping centre.

Sgt Mark Naylor said: "Although it may seem like harmless fun, this sort of behaviour is very dangerous. Disused or derelict buildings should never be entered without permission, as they are generally a dangerous environment.

"Also those involved in this kind of behaviour could find themselves accused of trespass or even more serious offences such as burglary. It is also believed that there could be asbestos in the building, which is an added health danger.”

Patrols have been increased and officers are actively targeting those involved in this sort of activity.

The four-storey building has been torched countless times and is now sealed off.

Sgt Naylor added: "We are urging parents to warn their children about the dangers involved in going into derelict buildings and urging them to stay away. Local residents are also being urged to report any incidents in the area and to report any suspicious activity to police immediately."

Information can be passed on to Cheshire Police by calling 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.