Night of Action to tackle anti-social behaviour

A seaside town is holding a Night of Action to help tackle anti-social behaviour in the area.

The event, starting later in Bournemouth, will see Dorset Police, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, and other groups working together.

There will be a stand in the town's Lower Gardens from 17:00 BST, and police officers will also operate a high-tech knife arch in Bournemouth Square.

A council spokesperson said the event would show how the groups were "working together to protect public safety" and address anti-social behaviour.

The previous Day of Action saw the council and the police seize 1,279 illegal vapes, 6.8kg of hand-rolling tobacco and 36,980 illegal cigarettes.

The event forms part of Dorset Police’s 100 Days of Summer initiative, which has seen an increased number of uniformed officers in the region.

Insp Ady Thompson said the force was "committed to creating and maintaining a safe county for everyone".

He said: “Our 100 Days of Summer initiative shines a spotlight on the daily patrols we carry out and wider days of action enable us to work even closer with partners to engage with our communities.

“Our officers will use dispersal powers to direct people away from hotspots if they act in an anti-social manner.

"Repeated anti-social behaviour by individuals may lead to further action including Community Protection Notices and Criminal Behaviour Orders.”

Councillor Kieron Wilson said: “This latest Night of Action is another opportunity for us to demonstrate how we, alongside our partners, are taking action to improve Bournemouth town centre."

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