Cumbria Police has warned children to stay away from a “hazardous and dangerous” former Egremont care home following repeated issues.

Officers were called to Castle Mount care home, in Egremont on Saturday, November 2, following reports of children in the building.

The officers tried to secure the building themselves but due to the extensive damage consisting of smashed windows and doors it was difficult to achieve complete security.

Cumbria Police stated this is a “repeat issue” and they are working with external agencies to address it.

The owner of the building has been identified and resides out of County.

Police said action has been taken and will be escalated as per process until this building is either secured, demolished or “made safe”.

In a statement police said: “We URGE you to ask your children not to go inside this building; it is extremely dangerous, filthy and a huge hazard.

“Whilst we are trying to address the issue we are tied with the law and legislative process, all of which are frustratingly time restricted.”

A scooter was found inside the building and police have stated the owner is “not in trouble”, they just want it returned.

It is currently at Whitehaven Police Station.

Police added: “We ask that children DO NOT ENTER this building due to the risk associated.”