Officials at Moira Furnace have reported a 'large group of teenagers' harassing and swearing at staff and throwing milk pots at them.

A post on the Furnace Facebook page said that the good weather had attracted a spate of anti-social behaviour from abusive youths at the Moira attraction yesterday (Wednesday).

It also said the youths were breaking Covid rules and some forced their way into the museum.

The police had to be called as a result.

A spokesman for Leicestershire Police said: "Around 3.20pm on Wednesday, 31 March, officers received a report of anti-social behaviour near Moira Furnace.

"It was reported that a group of 12 teenagers had gathered and were behaving aggressively towards members of the public.

"Officers attended and the group dispersed."

The Furnace posted: "Such a glorious day today, sadly spoilt by a large group of teenagers, ignoring Covid restrictions, gathering in groups of more than six, jumping into and in front of our boat before heading to the furnace to harass the volunteers and staff, swearing at them, throwing the milk pots at them and forcing entry into the museum without masks.

"The police were called and arrived, managing to talk to a few of them with some running away.

"This has truly ruined a good day and put both their lives and the lives and well-being of our visitors at risk.

"We would like to ask, do you know where your children are and what they are doing?

"We want this site to be a safe and enjoyable place for visitors of all ages without fear of abuse both physically and verbally from anyone, no matter what their age.

"This behaviour is not welcome on site and the police will be informed with action being taken. Such a shame."

Last August, the Furnace reported vandals causing damage to their moored barge on the canal Moira officials hit out after canal swimmers cause damage to 100 year old boat.

Just days later, damage was caused to the Furnace's Storytelling Area and nearby fencing More damage caused at Moira Furnace.