Alcohol was seized and empty laughing gas canisters were found as police targeted trouble hotspots in Dorchester.

Officers focused patrols last night on areas highlighted by residents as problems with 'anti-social behaviour including underage drinking, littering and rowdy, abusive behaviour'.

The neighbourhood team said while there was 'positive interaction' with numerous groups enjoying their evenings, officers seized alcohol from youngsters gathered at Maumbury Rings which is covered by a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

Empty nitrous oxide (NOS) canisters were found in the playing fields behind Thomas Hardye School.

The psychoactive drug is a colourless gas that people inhale, usually with a balloon.

Police have previously warned that people who take too much risk falling unconscious or suffocating from the lack of oxygen.

A spokesman for the policing team said: "Areas patrolled included Maumbury Rings, Borough Gardens, Thomas Hardye School fields, Holmead Walks Fields, 1610 (leisure centre), Market car park, and Sawmills Cricket Pavillion.

"Dorchester should be a pleasant place for everyone to enjoy throughout the summer - we will continue to patrol to help prevent the minority spoiling it for the many."