CELEBRITY chef Marco Pierre White, pictured, has vowed to boycott the River Test at Totton if controversial security fences are torn down.

Mr White - a keen fisherman - told how a visit to Salmon Leap was ruined by yobs causing trouble on a bridge beside a cottage occupied by river keeper Graham Purbrick.

The London-based restaurant owner said: "I just could not take the aggravation. There were people jumping off the bridge, hurling cans, swearing and throwing stones.

"I love the fishing, but I leave London to have some tranquillity on the Test. There is no point in coming down to hear shouting and swearing."

Earlier this year Mr Purbrick built wooden fences along both sides of the bridge in a bid to protect his home and people sitting by the river.

But New Forest District Council says the fences were installed without planning permission and must be removed.

Mr White added: "I will never fish there again if they are taken down."

However, the council's stance has been praised by walkers, who say the barriers block stunning river views.