BEGGARS in Blandford are being targeted by a new Local Action Group and some could see themselves made the subject of antisocial behaviour orders.

The group, made up of representatives from North Dorset District Council, police, the fire service, local residents and councillors, is considering moves to put posters around the town urging people not to give to beggars, in a bid to stop more coming.

Some members feel beggars use money given to them to fund drug and alcohol habits.

Angela Hibbin, community safety policy officer at North Dorset District Council, said: "We're considering a campaign similar to one running in Swindon to educate people not to give money to beggars because it funds their drug habits.

"The idea is that retailers have collection boxes for homeless charities instead. Some people say they give to beggars so they won't go out and commit crime to fund their habits but we're finding we have more beggars coming into Blandford because people have been giving to them."

She claimed some residents felt intimidated and said proceedings had begun to try and make two beggars in the town the subject of antisocial behaviour orders.

"We're trying to get an ASBO in place against one man who has been particularly intimidating. If successful that would be North Dorset's first ASBO. Another could come into place against another beggar on the back of criminal proceedings," she added.

The council is waiting for a court date for the first ASBO hearing.

The Blandford Action Group next meets on September 29.

First published: September 16