We will not tolerate it. That's the strong warning going out to graffiti vandals who have caused more than £7,000 worth of damage at Wickford's Memorial Park in just a year.

It comes from Wickford Police who spoke out after they arrested two youngsters intent on adding to the destruction on Saturday morning.

Now the incident has prompted them to issue a promise to try to enforce new stiffer penalties against those responsible.

PC Geoff Whiter said: "We want to drive home the message that it's not acceptable. The incidents of graffiti are down but a small minority of juveniles continue to take pleasure in destroying the property of others."

Continuing damage to the Memorial Park at Rettendon View, has been a serious problem for the past few years and more than £7,000 worth of damage was caused last year alone.

When police picked up the 16-year-old and his 13-year-old accomplice on Saturday one readily admitted planning to vandalise the park area. A holdall on them contained spray cans and felt tip pens - both can cause pointless, but expensive damage in seconds.

Enquiries are still continuing, but police say they may use new powers gained through recent crime and disorder legislation against one of the youths involved.

PC Whiter said: "One of the ways in which we are combating this kind of nuisance is the application of anti-social behaviour orders (ASBO).

"These act as a kind of injunction that stops an individual from certain actions. We are considering this action in this case and we use this power in future."

ASBOs were introduced in April and last for two years when applied. To breach any of the conditions in the order is a criminal offence which may result in up to five years jail.

People who repeatedly damage property with graffiti may now face criminal prosecution if they break an ASBO. The measures being considered show how important graffiti is to the police.

PC Whiter said: "Wickford has this reputation that graffiti is a problem. Brentwood or Billericay don't have the same level. The incidents of graffiti are higher but our general crime rate is low."

Other possible measures include action under the Housing Act 1996 which allows a local authority to evict persons responsible for 'anti-social behaviour'.

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