POLICE have issued a warning to youths not to congregate at a closed pub building.

It comes after they were spotted at the site of the Jolly Falstaff in Padgate on Friday.

Cheshire Police says that the site has been targeted by drug use, arson and general anti-social behaviour of late.

Parents are being urged to speak to their children to ensure they know not to hang around near the building.

The force’s Poulton North Police team said: “We were on foot patrol on Friday night at several known hotspots.

“In particular, several youths have been spoken to and asked not to hang around the Jolly Falstaff pub.

“We have received reports of anti-social behaviour, arson and drug use around this area.

“Can we ask all parents that live in this area to have a chat with their children about safe places to play and chat. This is not one of them.”

Plans to demolish the disused Blackbrook Avenue pub were abandoned in November.

This is not the first time Cheshire Police has urged youths to stay away from the building.

Last summer, a clean-up was undertaken by officers and members of the community due to the site becoming a magnet for anti-social behaviour.