Security is being stepped up at the former HMS Ganges training base after the site was targeted by so-called 'urban warriors'.

You Tubers, vandals and other trespassers, have put their own lives in danger by exploring the derelict site, with some causing extensive damage to various buildings.

Their criminal exploits have left nearby residents concerned for the interlopers' safety, after they were spotted on fragile rooves and areas where

Overnight sleepers have been spotted and evidence of squatting has been reported locally.

Although there is a security guard, and he has sent some trespassers packing, it appears he has been unable to keep on top of all the activity, which has been going on day and night.

One nearby resident who has witnessed, and reported incidents, told Nub News: "It has been getting worse and worse. They are like a plague of rats.

"Even with this supposed lock down I see people there at all time sof day and night, causing all sort of damage. Smashing windows, throw things off the roof, and I have even seen some people going in and out with sleeping bags."

Another neighbour said: "I feel for the poor security guy. No sooner has he delat with one but there are more.

"There are holes in the fence all over the place."

It is understood more people have been attracted to the site after a couple of You Tube video were posted.

A spokesman for the owners said: "We are aware of what has been going on and the dangerous manner people have been behaving.

"It appears we have been targeted by urban warriors who seem to get a thrill out of going in and around the old buildings.

"The problem is they are putting themselves in great danger. Not only are the rooves unsafe, but many of the flooring is very unstable.

"We are taking this very serious and adding much more security, and securing areas where the fence has been cut open."

It is understood CCTV is being added to strategic areas around the former Royal Navy training base and extra manpower to bolster the security officers, are among the measures to beef up security.

Construction work was due to start next month in developing the site with permission granted for 285 homes, a small hotel, residential care home, retail units and community buildings.

More than 160,000 boys, many from the age of 15, went though basic training at the Royal Navy Training Establishment, which was opened in 1905 and closed in 1976. The site was used by the RAF, the police and a sports leisure company before being bought for development nearly 25 years ago.