POLICE backed the cancellation of school prom after-parties over fears of underage drinking and child protection, it has emerged.

The force says it was fully behind

Rochford District Council’s decision to stop the events, for youngsters at Sweyne Park and FitzWimarc schools, on the grounds of underage drinking, antisocial behaviour, and licensing issues.

The party was set to be held at Hedge Row Stables, Burlington Gardens, Hullbridge.

Gordon Ashford, licensing manager at Essex Police, said: “The remoteness and difficulties of the location alongside insufficient plans to protect the children at an event where consumption of alcohol would be tolerated, were amongst the concerns detailed at the hearing.

“We welcome Rochford District Council’s decision and we would urge parents and children to be mindful of the dangers of going to such events, where alcohol could be consumed by children following the end of the school year.”

Frustrated parents at Sweyne Park school told the Echo earlier this week: “The amount of alcohol consumed is down to the relationship between parent and child; alcohol isn’t sold at the event.

“There’s security there if they get too drunk.”

A spokesman for Police, said: “On Tuesday, June 18, Rochford District Council’s licensing sub-committee dismissed a notice in relation to after prom parties between Wednesday, June 26, and Friday, June 28. The events were being planned for between 11pm and 3am for two schools within the Rochford district. We raised concerns around crime and disorder, public nuisance, public safety and protection of children from harm and the committee agreed to reject the application.”