Gordon Whittles, of Lynwood Park, Warton, is calling for local police to work more with the community to help stamp out anti-social behaviour in Fylde's parks and gardens

But the claims have been refuted by police.

The plea came after he was among a group of bowlers who were subjected to sick taunts and gestures from youths.

But after he went to nearby St Annes Police Station to complain and got no answer, he hit-out – accusing officers of being complacent.

"I know its warm in the police station," he said. "I am a retired police officer, but for God's sake liaise with your local community to eradicate all of this anti-social behaviour.

"The public have had enough. Where is your pride? All you have to do is walk 400 yards from your local police station at appropriate times of the day to stop this."

The claims were strongly denied by Fylde Geographic Inspector Sue Swift.

She said that the majority of the young people who use the park behaved responsibly, while planned policing operations over the Easter period had been a success.

"We have dedicated neighbourhood policing teams in the St Annes area and Ashton Gardens is a high priority for patrols.

"St Annes Police Station closes at 6pm is so we can have a greater number of patrols on the streets in the evening.

"When the police station is closed, it does not mean that local police are unavailable – it is because they are out policing the local area and should anyone need police assistance, there is a telephone outside the police station," she added.