Vandals hit by new dispersal orders

The action follows complaints from householders and traders about continuing vandalism and unruly behaviour.

Under the Order, police have the power to move groups of people out of the key roads.

It follows the success of a similar Order covering much of Sidley.

People in Eversley Road became so concerned about lawlessness that they formed a Neighbourhood Watch group. It began pressing for action after stolen paint was used to daub parked vehicles and shop windows were smashed.

Bexhill police commander Inspector Dick Coates said this week that the Dispersal Order covers Eversley Road, Endwell Road, Devonshire Road, St Leonards Road, Wilton Road, Marina and Sea Road.

Police have been putting on extra patrols in the area.

The police mobile CCTV van has been used as part of the operation to crack down on hooliganism.

On Saturday night officers who dealt with drunken teenagers in Eversley Road and Devonshire Road confiscated alcohol from under-age drinkers.

He said: "This Order comes in response to problems in Eversley Road. We have worked with the residents down there and with housing landlords with property in the road."

He said: "The Order gives police power to require groups of people to move away and not return within 24 hours. If they refuse it is an arrestable offence.

"Hopefully, this will have a deterrent effect, as it has in Sidley."