BOATERS were bombarded with bricks while enjoying the sunshine at Iffley Lock, Oxford.

The incident marked a return to the problems the area has suffered with antisocial behaviour and vandalism.

Iffley Lock was last year included in a Rose Hill Dispersal Zone - which gave police powers to move on groups of youths - but was taken out when the zone was renewed earlier this year, because police said the problems at the lock had died down.

Trouble at the lock reached a peak last summer and the Environment Agency, which manages the lock, subsequently stepped up staff levels to ensure safety for lock-keepers.

Environment Agency spokesman Tim Abbott said the incident at about 4pm on Saturday was "worrying" and urged anyone who saw inappropriate or antisocial behaviour at the lock to call the police.

Thames Valley Police spokesman Toby Shergold said: "The dispersal order was removed from that area because of a reduction in antisocial behaviour.

"We're well aware that there may be an increase again as the evenings draw out and get warmer and we will be monitoring the situation closely."

In June last year, a 61-year-old man was pushed into the river, a canoeist was stoned, another tipped into the water, logs were dumped in the river and a digger was driven into a fence.

The introduction of the dispersal zone, which covered Weirs Mill Stream, Donnington Bridge, Iffley Lock, the weir, the Isis pub and Isis boathouse, led to a reduction in the number of incidents.

Falcon Rowing and Canoeing Club also launched 'Kayaking for Hoodies' - a scheme intended to stop bored youths causing trouble on the riverbank.

  • Two 12-year-old boys were later arrested in the nearby Rose Hill estate, on suspicion of causing criminal damage. They were released on police bail.