Village dispersal zone is renewed

A dispersal order set up to break up groups of young people in a Nottinghamshire village is to be renewed after it was hailed a success.

The new powers were brought in to tackle anti-social behaviour across Edwinstowe on 26 February.

Police said hundreds of young people had been moved using the order, which covers the majority of streets in the village.

The renewed order will be in place until February 2008.

'Fewer complaints'

Insp Andy Gan said: "Since the dispersal zone was introduced officers have successfully moved on hundreds of individuals and groups.

"As a result anti-social behaviour has been reduced and police are receiving fewer complaints and reports.

If a police officer or community support officer sees two or more people within the zone and they believe they might harass or intimidate members of the public, the officers have powers to ask the people to leave the area.

Officers are also able to seize alcohol and take anyone under the age of 16 home after 2100 GMT if they are seen in the zone causing trouble.