Parents of pupils at a Canterbury grammar are being urged to stop their children going to the city's parks "for their own safety".

A letter was sent out by deputy head teacher Abigail Haley of Barton Court Grammar School warning of "concerning events", particularly at Dane John Gardens, including a rape in August and ongoing trouble.

Just last week, five men were arrested in the park following reports of an armed robbery involving knives and a hammer.

Ms Haley wrote: "Please can you discuss with your son or daughter that they are advised strongly by the local police to avoid these areas at all times.

"We are aware that some students meet and go to the park areas both before and after school and this needs to cease for their own safety."

Dane John Gardens has been the focus of recent efforts by police and the city council to crack down on crime and anti-social behaviour.

They put “a tactical focus” in place in September after residents complained the gardens had become lawless and were not property policed.

In August, the maze at the foot of the Dane John Mound was sealed off following an alleged rape.

Last Wednesday, five men were picked up following reports of an armed robbery and it is alleged two men were armed with knives and a third with a hammer.

Police have yet to reveal details of where the incident took place.

People living near the Dane John Gardens said incidents – including vandalism, fighting, drug abuse and drunken disturbance – have spiralled out of control.

Despite the school's letter to parents, police say they have not issued any formal warnings to schools in Canterbury relating to crime in Dane John Gardens.

Inspector Vicki Tyler from the Canterbury Community Safety Unit said: "The gardens are regularly patrolled by officers including those from our dedicated city team who know the city and its issues inside out.

"There is always a potential for a very small minority to commit crime and be a nuisance but our experience and evidence indicates that this is not a disproportionate problem in the Dane John Gardens.

"When crimes are committed we take swift and proportionate action. Last week, for example, three robberies were reported in the gardens.

"We had arrested five people in connection with the incidents within 24 hours of them being reported to us.

"We are never complacent and are committed to regularly talking to residents and working with local partners to assess crime in all areas of this district, including the Dane John, and will continue that dialogue.

"We would always advise people whatever their age to think about their own personal safety and to stick to well-lit, well-populated areas.

"But we want to reassure them that there is not a disproportionate problem in the Dane John Gardens."