Staff at Rugby's parks having to deal with abuse, people defecating on grass and extra 10 tonnes of rubbish daily

Staff at Rugby's parks are facing an onslaught on selfish behaviour, including abuse, littering and people defecating on grass - a senior member of staff has revealed.

Chris Worman, manager of parks for Rugby Borough Council, spoke to the Guardian for a report they compiled on the concerns of park managers across the country as they prepare for the further easing of the lockdown on July 4.

Mr Worman told the Guardian: “We are collecting seven Transit vanloads extra every day – that’s around 10 tonnes more rubbish.

"People are defecating in the grass, they are leaving rubbish on the ground when there are bins nearby, they are abusing our staff.

“And we are key workers. We have worked throughout the pandemic and now they are suffering this.

"The people coming to the parks don’t seem to care about the environment, or the staff that have worked all the way through this. It is bizarre and frustrating behaviour.”

Mr Worman added that he is dreading what will happen on July 4 - a day being nicknamed 'Super Saturday'.

Rugby council told the Advertiser that community wardens will be patrolling as normal on July 4, but no extra measures will be put in place.

Howard Roberts, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for the environment and public realm, told the Advertiser he is disappointed with the behaviour of a minority of residents.

But praised the wider public for their support.

He said: "Our parks and open spaces have played a vital role during lockdown, providing a safe, welcoming environment for residents to enjoy.

“With the gradual relaxation of the lockdown restrictions, we have been disappointed with the behaviour of a minority, behaviour which has placed extra pressure on our staff and resources at a time when we’re still dealing with a national emergency.

“We want all our residents to be able to enjoy our parks and open spaces, so I’d urge all visitors to behave responsibly, consider others, take all litter home and adhere to the Government guidance on social distancing and hygiene.

“I’d also like to thank everyone who has helped us by litter-picking at our parks in recent weeks, help which reflects the support we have received throughout the lockdown from the overwhelming majority of our community.”

Visit bit.ly/3ghvJIF to read the Guardian's report in full.