Neighbours claim they have been experiencing "intimidation and threats of violence" from people holding "illegal parties" in a popular park.

Complaints about noise, harassment, and littering resulting from partygoers in St Edward VII Park in Wembley have been ongoing for many years, but have ramped up over recent weeks, residents say.

There have been reports of groups of up to 200 gathering in the park, with sound systems, amplifiers, and large party tents. These events are held without a permit and often advertised on Facebook – with one charging a £5 entry fee.

One resident, Manish Trivedy, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): “Residents are now absolutely fed up by the amplified noise and the rubbish dumped in the park, the street and neighbours' front gardens.

"The rubbish includes food that attracts vermin, which are visible during the day. Also revving of engines and racing cars, and blocking driveways.”

He added: “This is unacceptable behaviour and is impacting the quality of life and wellbeing of many residents. Many of the residents have been living here for many years and their children have grown up with fond memories of the park.”

Another resident, Laura Sear, said complaints have been raised to the council and the police for four years. She said: “The police point at the council to take action and say other areas have priority and the council, which has the authority to simply close down the park from a certain time, has failed to take any action.”

She added: “As the summer weather improves, the parties grow bigger, louder and sketchier. The neighbourhood has tried to talk to those who are organising and attending these illegal parties in the park. This was met with intimidation, verbal assault and threats of violence.”

Brent Council has a Public Space Protection Order that bans the consumption of alcohol in parks throughout the borough. But Manish claims there is drinking "on a daily basis" and the rules are not being enforced.

A group of residents submitted a petition, with 89 signatories, to the council in 2022 and were told they would be sent an action plan. They say it was never sent.

There have been 19 calls to the police this year alone, including one 999 call for threatening behaviour. Residents want the council to enforce existing rules regarding alcohol consumption and antisocial behaviour, to clamp down on noise, and shut the park gates at 9pm.

Brent Council leader Cllr Muhammed Butt told the LDRS: “After the petition we met with residents at the park and wrote to event organisers, which seemed to stop the loud events in the park. Residents have met with the council and the police in recent months regarding new instances of anti-social behaviour in the park and officers are looking at ways to resolve the situation.”

He added: “Residents are reminded to remain vigilant and to contact us with any information on anti-social behaviour. Please go directly to the police if you witness a crime.”