I understand citizenship is now in the school curriculum.

May I suggest that the first lessons in September be used to put this subject into practice.

The path from Lidl’s car park, along the side and rear of the leisure centre and with the skateboard park behind, is absolutely smothered in litter, as is the park itself.

Litter bins are provided and they are almost empty.

I find it incredibly sad that so many youngsters behave in this way.

I also feel extremely sorry for the long-suffering leisure centre staff who are clearing up the mess on a daily basis.

When I sat and talked to some of the youngsters, I suggested that the council might consider removing the skate­park rather than paying extra staff to keep it open.

To this suggestion I received a polite but forlorn reply that “they are going to knock it down soon anyway”.

How about a promise to provide another park if the youngsters show willing by clearing up the present one?

Young people need to let off steam and burn up surplus energy – both mental and physical.

Why not invite them to help plan and maintain a replacement, rather than remove an excellent facility for a new clubhouse, leaving nothing for younger Dartmothians, many of whom cannot afford expensive club subscriptions?

Jennie Lloyd-Edwards

Broad Park, Dartmouth