Police getting tough with beggars

Beggars in the Somerset city of Wells are being targeted by police after complaints from residents and tourists.

Officer patrols are being stepped up and CCTVs will be used to monitor the beggars' behaviour.

Those who persistently offend despite warnings will face an Anti-social behaviour order (Asbo) banning them from the area.

However, police said the best way to stop beggars was to refuse to give them any money.

Police community support officer Becky Lester said: "While they are earning they will keep coming to the city - we would recommend you give your money to a charity instead."

She said many beggars often placed themselves by shops or banks making people feel intimidated using the facilities.

"People can also help us by reporting if they have been a victim of aggressive begging.

"The more evidence we have the stronger any court case will be. We especially need to know the location, date, time and description of the person."