A Keighley park is becoming a no-go area for bowlers because of abuse and intimidation by unruly youths.

The bowlers say they are too scared to use the Lund Park greens - especially accompanied by their wives - at certain times of the day.

Bowlers, who are too frightened to give their names, have called for extra policing.

And Bradford Council recreation division is considering building fencing around the two bowling greens and pavilions. Members want police to swoop in plain clothes and in unmarked cars to prevent the youths getting an early warning and escaping.

They say they are being racially abused by Asian youths, who are aged between 14 and 18 years.

One bowler, who has been a member of the Lund Park Bowling Club for about five years said: "They shout at us 'this is our park, f**k off you white b******s.

"We can't come down here with our wives after tea because it is too intimidating.

"Last Saturday, there was a group of between six and ten who were causing bother by walking on the green.

"We asked them to get off and they abused us.

"One of them threw a whole can of drink at us, and when my friend walked towards them they started throwing stones.

"Three years ago you could come down here every day, but now the only time you can bowl after teatime is when there is a match on and there are a lot of people here."

He stressed that hundreds of Asian people used the park and everyone got on well, but a particular group of teenage youths was causing all the bother.

Another member, who also did not want to give his name, said: "We also have to keep an eye on our cars and we park them in different places every day.

"They use mobile phones to contact each other and different groups appear in different parts of the park."

Bowling club secretary Brian Ellis said membership numbers had slumped in recent years because of the abuse.

At the club's request, Bradford Council was considering putting up fences around the greens and pavilions.

Acting Superintendent Roger Gasson of Keighley police said police were aware of the latest incident in which bowlers had been racially abused and they would be stepping up patrols.

"We are aware there is some intimidation," he said..

"We are working with the local community, councillors, parents and teachers and youth workers to try and improve the quality of life in the community."

A Bradford Council spokesman said planning permission was being sought to erect a fence around the bowling greens.

He added: "Meanwhile, if the bowlers have information or concerns about intimidation they are welcome to contact our park rangers on 01274 752696."