WATCH: Youths punch resident in Southport town centre

Photo: Anti-social behavior, Southport

WATCH: Anti-Social Behaviour in Southport 

Anti-social behavior behind Eastbank House, Southport, Thursday 1oth March. A local resident attempts to move trespassers on but five youths verbally abuse, spit, throw stones then assault the man.

The victim who wants the remain anonymous said: “I called the police and they were on the scene within ten minutes.

Merseyside Police are desperately trying to crack down on a group of 40 or more vandals who have plagued Southport Town Centre in recent weeks.

A dispersal order was recently put in place to attempt to cut down on the high levels of anti social behaviour which has been rife throughout Southport Town Centre in recent weeks.

Now Merseyside Police are promising to crack down on the issue with a temporary dispersal order, meaning increased powers to break up congregations of youngsters even if they do not appear to be causing any issues.

Anyone gathering in large groups between Lord Street, Talbot Street and London Street will be broken up by police or PCSOs.

Southport Neighbourhood Inspector Graham Fisher said:

“We have had a significant increase in anti-social behaviour in the town centre. In particular, evenings around the Eastbank Street and Lord Street areas.

“Over the last couple of weeks we have experienced groups of 30 to 40 intimidating business owners, staff and local residents.

“As a result I have proposed to issue a 48 hour dispersal zone over the weekend. There will be an increased police presence in the area and we are working with local businesses and the Council to identify offenders and take the appropriate action.

“These measures are not designed to have a negative impact upon decent, well behaved people in Southport Town centre but rather to address the unacceptable behaviour of a small minority.

“These issues will be closely monitored and further dispersals will be authorised if need be.“

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