CIVIC chiefs in Wimborne are defending the town's picture postcard image amid claims it is fast becoming a haven for drink and drug-fuelled youngsters.

The claims come from Park Lane resident Sally Holden following a disturbance at a nightclub in East Street in which a man sustained head injuries.

Two men were arrested following the incident which occurred around 11pm on Friday October 28, just hours after a high-profile visit to the town by the Countess of Wessex.

Mrs Holden said: "We smartened up, put the flags out and welcomed royalty to this quaint and beauti-ful town. But within hours of this wonderful event the town went back to its alter ego and became a haven for violent, abusive and destructive young people fuelled by drink and drugs."

Wimborne Police Sgt Tim Gallivan described the fracas as an isolated incident adding that violent crime in the town had fallen by 10 per cent in the last six months.

"For the number of licensed premises Wimborne has, we have very few incidents. I consider Wimborne a very safe place to live and work," he added.

But Mrs Holden said Friday night disturbances involving drunken youngsters were becoming more frequent.

"The Minster dominates and provides a centre of focus, but walk a few yards from the Minster on a Saturday morning and you will see evidence of something else dominating this town."

Wimborne mayor Cllr John Perry said it was important parents, police and the public worked together to combat irresponsible behaviour.

He added: "Naturally I am upset this lady feels this way but this is not the face of Wimborne that I live in. There is far more to the town and I look at all the volunteers involved in groups such as Wimborne in Bloom, the Tivoli, the civic society and the churches. That's the Wimborne that I love."

First published: November 4, 2005