Police say they are "working tirelessly" to tackle a spike in antisocial behaviour that has seen businesses smashed and residents assaulted.

The crime wave plaguing Shirley has seen scores of reports of vandalism, harassment, and violence, with some teens even arrested on suspicion of criminal offences.

Police have issued multiple dispersal orders in a bid to stamp out the spree, which is understood to be caused by a large group of youths, aged 13 to 14.

However, the behaviour has not abated, and residents have urged police to do more to keep their high street safe.

READ MORE: MP says ‘everyone deserves to feel safe’ after anti-social behaviour in Shirley

Inspector Andrew Proctor of Southampton Neighbourhood Policing Team sympathised with the community and said the force is "determined" to tackle the issue.

He said: “Unfortunately, we are continuing to see people who appear intent on involving themselves in crime and antisocial behaviour in the Shirley area.

“We completely understand the frustration and upset that this behaviour is causing our local communities. Please be assured that our various teams and officers are working tirelessly to tackle the issues.

“We will not tolerate this behaviour and are determined to put a stop to this and target the individuals involved, as is already being done.

“We are putting these measures in place to help us prevent and address the issues and keep our communities safe, working alongside our partners in the process, including youth workers, safeguarding teams, affected businesses, the local authority, charities and others.

“The tactics we are using are a robust measure and will help us to ensure local people’s lives aren’t disrupted.

“If you have witnessed or been affected by any of this type of behaviour in the area, please continue to report it to us, so we can further target our patrols and take further proactive action.”

READ MORE: Furious residents tell of 'fear and havoc' caused by plague of yobs

In one of the latest incidents, Sunnyday International Foods had its window smashed, and reports of harassment were made, but police did not attend the scene, drawing criticism from the community.

Police are urging the public to continue reporting incidents to help direct patrols and inform further action.

Anyone with information about antisocial behaviour or crime in the area can call 101 or report online via the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary website.

In emergencies, always call 999.