Police are calling on parents to make sure their children are not playing in dangerous abandoned buildings in Kenilworth.

Kenilworth and Warwick Rural Police said there has been an increase in youngsters breaking into derelict buildings, putting themselves at risk by doing so - or breaking the law by trespassing.

"We don't expect the younger residents of Kenilworth and their friends to know much about the dangers of asbestos, or to be expert building inspectors," a statement on social media said.

"That's why we're asking parents and guardians across the town for a favour.

"With the onset of nicer weather, we are asking that you can you have a friendly conversation with your child(ren) to remind them to stay away from disused/derelict buildings.

"We're getting reports of disused buildings being broken into and used as hangout spots.

"We're aware that hanging around in 'spooky' buildings and smashing things up might be an exciting prospect for some of our town's younger residents - but inhaling asbestos fibres, falling from heights or being injured by debris isn't that fun.

"Nor are the criminal consequences that people engaging in this behaviour might face."