A LEDBURY teenager has been handed a community order after pleading guilty to assault with intent to resist arrest.

Daniels Kalva, aged 19, of Bridge Street was given the order at Hereford Magistrates’ Court. He must undertake 150 hours of unpaid work and to pay £185 in costs as well as a £95 victim surcharge.

On Friday, October 1, Kalva was found by police to be drunk and disorderly at the Recreation Ground. 

An officer attempted to arrest him for the offence but he resisted and a struggle ensued during which the officer suffered a laceration to his nose and a black eye.

Kalva was later arrested and following an investigation was charged with assault with intent to resist arrest. He pleaded guilty to the offence.

Inspector James Ashton, of Ledbury’s Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT), said: “We are aware of community concerns around anti-social behaviour in the local area so are pleased that we have been able to secure a conviction in this case.

"We hope that this helps to send the message that we will not tolerate anti-social behaviour in our communities and will take action where necessary.”

Following the incident at the Recreation Ground on October 1, Watch Commander Rich Cooper of Ledbury Fire Station said members of his crew had also received abuse at the Recreation Ground while responding to a report of arson. “There have been around 25 calls to this type of fire this year,” he said.

“They usually involve wood being set on fire in rubbish bins or in shopping trolleys.

“The individuals who started these fires were also abusive to our crew when they came to put the fire out and this is something they should not have to contend with.”

Since this time, police have stepped up patrols in the area. 

Last Friday, a tweet from the Ledbury SNT said: "SNT have issued dispersal notices tonight following continued anti-social behaviour at 'The Rec'. 

“Your behaviour impacts on everyone in the town and it will not be tolerated.”

At the age of 14, Kalva was issued with a Criminal Behaviour Order banning him from the grounds of John Masefield High School, the Walled Garden off Church Street and the youth club in Bye Street.