Crowds descend upon quiet Milton Keynes town for 'wild swimming' parties, complete with drink and drugs

The Great Ouse river in Olney was recklessly plugged this month in national newspaper as a perfect location for 'wild swimming'.

They described the "wonderful" swimming area near the recreation ground and shingle 'beaches' by the church..

Within days crowds of people were gathering in the town to cool down during last week's heatwave.

But, judging by the mess the left behind, swimming was only a small part of their pleasure. Photos show dozens of empty alcohol bottle and hundreds of small silver canisters of nitrous oxide.

Nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas, is inhaled from the canisters to give the user a short high.

Olney residents have spent hours clearing up the mess and say they are appalled at the "blight" on their town.

Ward councillors Keith McLean, Peter Geary and David Hosking have contacted the national papers and asked for the offending article to be removed.

In a joint statement, they said: " The Georgian market town of Olney is well renowned for its stunning architecture, outstanding independent retailers and first class food and drink establishments. Surrounded by amazing countryside and the river Great Ouse running through it, residents are rightly proud of their town.

"Unfortunately, this has been recently marred by the appalling behaviour of a group of inconsiderate and thoughtless people who have spoiled the enjoyment of the majority of visitors who appreciate the town and treat it with the respect it deserves."

The statement added: "Olney is a welcoming, warm and inclusive community. However, we will not allow the behaviour of a few to spoil the enjoyment of the residents and many visitors to the town

In order to deal with the recent anti-social behaviour at the Recreation Ground we are working with Thames Valley Police and officers at Milton Keynes Council, seeking a zero tolerance approach to parking and road traffic offences, alcohol being consumed in contravention of a local Alcohol Exclusion Order, drugs misuse, litter, drink driving, and disorderly behaviour.

"We are determined to maintain the standards of our town for the benefit of both residents and those great many visitors who appreciate what we have to offer and whose presence we, of course, welcome."