FEMALE spa-goers were reportedly harassed by a group of "chanting" men who "followed" them around a relaxation retreat in Colchester, prompting the launch of an investigation.
Aqua Springs, in Cowdray Avenue, has been urged to do more to protect its clients following reports of men acting inappropriately towards women at the complex.
During a recent visit to the retreat with his wife, one spa-goer claims he witnessed as many as 12 men staring and chanting at women, while also following them.
The disgruntled husband, who says his wife was also targeted by the group, claims the men were “hounding” anyone who walked near them.
The couple had headed to Aqua Springs, near Leisure World, for a relaxing evening, but left after only an hour due to the unsavoury behaviour of the males.
Richard Kirkby-Taylor, Colchester councillor for the Castle ward, said he was disgusted to hear of the ordeal endured by the women at the retreat.
He said: “This type of behaviour is utterly unacceptable and anyone who knows who these people are needs to have a strong word with them.
“These men need to have a good long hard look at themselves in the mirror because this is not how you should treat people.
“Aqua Springs is meant to be a place where people go to relax and they should always be able to feel safe – so this is just utterly unacceptable.”
Mr Kirkby-Taylor has now urged spa-goers to be extra vigilant and flag any concerns with Aqua Springs employees as soon as they witness any suspected harassment.
“I would stress anyone who witnesses this type of behaviour to report it to staff who will do everything they can to make sure this behaviour is not tolerated,” he added.
“And any blokes who see other men making these kind of comments, this your turn to step forward and do more than the bare minimum.”
Bosses at Colchester Council, which runs Aqua Springs, have now launched an investigation into the claims.
A spokesman said: "We are aware of an incident of harassment at Aqua Springs. We take these reports very seriously and are working with the relevant authorities to investigate the matter.
“Aqua Springs is a safe and welcoming place for everyone. We have a zero-tolerance policy for any form of harassment or abuse.
"We encourage anyone who has witnessed or experienced harassment or abuse at Aqua Springs to report it to the police or to Aqua Springs staff immediately."
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