A DEN which a group of young people were using as a hang-out spot was taken apart after being discovered by police in Dorchester.

The den was dismantled and removed by Police Community Support Officers and staff from Thomas Hardye School yesterday morning.

Police said there was evidence of broken glass, litter and a significant amount of graffiti. In addition, several branches and fencing said to have been stolen from a nearby leisure centre were broken to use as a roof.

A spokesman for Dorchester Police said: "This behaviour is totally unacceptable and patrols will continue in the area. Do you know where your kids hang out? Do you know who your children are with?"