Teens crash pools using Google Earth

Revellers are using Google Earth to locate private swimming pools

Tech-savvy teenagers are using Google Earth to pinpoint private swimming pools for illegal summer parties.

Once a suitable venue has been chosen, partygoers conduct the final arrangements over social networking sites such as Facebook and Bebo.

Sixteen revellers are thought to have gatecrashed two pools near Bournemouth in an overnight party earlier this week, prompting police fears of copy-cat incidents over the summer months.

According to police, pool-owning residents have returned from work to find their swimming pool full of beer cans.

Wealthy householders have also awoken to the sound of trespassing swimmers enjoying an illicit dip.

Google Earth pool party rules typically include fancy dress and a bike to ensure a quick escape if the party is disturbed.

"We are advising owners of swimming pools to be on their guard and extra vigilant," said a spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police.

"We would also warn prospective swimmers that using someone else's pool is trespassing and therefore illegal."