A dispersal order will remain in place this weekend as part of a extended police clampdown on anti-social behaviour.

Several arrests have been made over the last week for offences including shoplifting as part of ongoing enforcement activity in Gillingham.

The order has been in place since 6pm on Friday last week following concerns of anti-social behaviour in the area.

Since then officers have directed more than 20 people – the majority of which were youths – to move on from the area.

Now additional powers have been granted to officers under a dispersal order, which will cover the town centre until Sunday.

Patrols will regularly visit the town and anyone who is suspected to be causing, or likely to cause anti-social activity will be instructed to leave immediately.

Police say the order can be reviewed and the timeframe extended if required.

Inspector Vanessa Foster, from the Medway Community Safety Unit, said: "We do not underestimate the impact that anti-social behaviour can cause to a community.

"Often it is the behaviour of a minority but this type of behaviour can impact a large number of people

"We will continue to ensure that anti-social behaviour is not allowed to go unchallenged in the town and that anyone behaving in such a manner faces consequences and we will respond proportionately."

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