POLICE have hailed the success of an operation to clean up the streets of Weymouth.

Officers concluded a two week long operation yesterday that targeted street drinkers and those seen to be acting in an anti-social manner along Weymouth seafront.

During the operation, 22 Section 27 dispersal orders were issued to people who were seen to be acting in an anti-social manner and 60 street drinkers were moved on following reports of anti-social behaviour. In total, eight people were arrested for being drunk and disorderly, drunk on a highway and in breach of Section 27 dispersal orders.

Powers given to police to prevent or stop alcohol-related crime and disorder allow them to order a person to leave a designated area and not return up to 48 hours. If this order is breached it could lead to an arrest.

PC Nicko Oldham from the Enhanced Policing Team in Weymouth, said: “It was highlighted to us that the public had concerns about people along the seafront who were regularly drunk and abusive.

“Through this operation, patrols were increased in an effort to tackle anti-social behaviour so the beautiful seafront in Weymouth can be enjoyed without exception.”

Borough council spokesman for community safety Cllr Mike Goodman said: “I congratulate the police on a good piece of work.

“I hope that the message has been received that Weymouth is a family resort and those who get drunk, abuse visitors, cause damage and generally spoil other people’s enjoyment are not welcome here.”

Council spokesman for community facilities Cllr Ian Bruce added: “Although anti-social behaviour is at a historic low level, the borough has a zero-tolerance attitude to vandalism in our parks, toilets, benches and other community facilities.

“The police tell us much of these problems come from the anti-social street drinkers and I am delighted that they have followed through on their promise of action.”

Dorset Police will continue to work alongside the public to ensure these issues are monitored and dealt with.

People who see anyone involved in alcohol related disorder, or acting in an anti-social manner can call Dorset Police on 101 or go to dorset.police.uk and report them using the ‘Do It Online’ service. If a crime is in progress or life in danger, dial 999 immediately.