Go-ahead for 'Shop a Yob'

Persistent offenders in Worcester are to be named in a new police leaflet and poster campaign.

Residents will receive details of those who have been handed anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs) after the idea was given legal backing.

Worcester MP Michael Foster, who first suggested the "Shop a Yob" scheme in the House of Commons last year, has welcomed the police action.

He said it would "empower" residents to lawfully tackle the problem themselves by reporting any breach of the ASBO.

It will give local people real teeth in the fight against disorder and anti-social behaviour Michael Foster MP

Worcester police confirmed they were going ahead after taking advice from their legal advisor.

The leaflets and posters will highlight who is subject of an ASBO and what the conditions are.

Mr Foster said: "I'm delighted the local police are taking up this idea. It will give local people real teeth in the fight against disorder and anti-social behaviour."

The MP was meeting Chief Superintendent Simon Adams on Friday to discuss how the new Anti Social Behaviour Act is to be enforced.

Mr Adams said up to 20 ASBOs had been issued and some of those offenders had continued to cause problems.

"It is people such as these who will be the subject of high-profile activity to bring them and their activities to the notice of the community at large," he said.

"The issuing of leaflets to the community will enable members of the public to assist in the monitoring of those continuing to flout their anti-social behaviour orders."

Officers were also expected to use new powers to move groups of yobs from designated trouble-spots on Friday night.