A dispersal order has been implemented in part of Southampton to curb anti-social behaviour and street drinking.

The order affects areas including London Road, Bedford Place, and Above Bar Street.

The Section 34 Dispersal Order was put into place at 12.15pm on June 2, and will be effective for 48 hours.

Enacted by the Southampton Central Neighbourhood Policing Team, the order was a response to a spate of incidents involving street drinking and other anti-social behaviours within the city centre.

(Image: Hampshire police)

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The nature of the order gives the police the authority to direct any individual involved in, or likely to be involved in, such behaviour, to vacate the specified area, with non-compliance being a criminal offence.

So far, officers have dispersed five individuals, with two more arrested due to outstanding shoplifting offences.

A spokesperson for Hampshire police said: "While the tone is calm, the message is clear: anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in our city centre.

" Our officers will continue to patrol the area to ensure it remains safe for residents, businesses, and visitors alike."