A MAN who lives in the heart of Alton has taken both East Hampshire District and Hampshire County Council to task over the lack of lighting on Weyside Walk.

This well-trodden way, which runs alongside the River Wey and links the High Street with Manor car park and the bus stop on Drayman’s Way, has no lighting and is pitch black at night which, according to Peter Desmond-Thomas, is encouraging anti-social behaviour.

He cites, in particular, litter, graffiti, failure to pick up dog mess, and affray.

“Lack of lighting increases the risk of tripping or slipping, and is not disabled friendly, particularly for those partially sighted,” added Mr Desmond-Thomas.

In desperation, he brought the subject up at Tuesday night’s community forum meeting in Alton, at which it was revealed that East Hampshire District Council actually owns the footpath.

While district council leader Ferris Cowper agreed to look into the matter, fellow county councillor Andrew Joy confirmed that he was already in discussions with the county council’s street-lighting team to address the issue.