POLICE have vowed to step up patrols in Bursledon following a series of public order incidents in and around the railway station.

Yobs, who have been making life hell for nearby residents, are believed to be responsible for torching a car in the station car park.

The driver later sustained a broken arm as he tried to flag down another car containing potential witnesses.

It is believed the young man caught his arm in the vehicle and was dragged along the road.

Now police are appealing for the driver or passenger of a large blue people carrier or 4x4 style vehicle to come forward.

Hedge End officers are teaming up with their British Transport Police colleagues and say they will be making regular visits to the area.

A police spokesman warned: "Any-one seen to be committing offences can expect to be dealt with robustly."

Youths are reported to have been congregating in the area causing nuisance and intimidating neighbouring residents and visitors.

Urging the driver or passenger of the blue car to come forward, the spokesman said: "They may be unaware that the man was injured. We believe the driver may have panicked, thinking he was under attack, which prevented him from stopping.

But he added: "Both he and his passenger may hold vital information to assist the police with their inquiries.

Police are also urging residents of Station Road to notify them whenever youths gather in the area and to provide descriptions of anyone they see committing criminal acts.

Information about the latest incident, which happened at about 9pm last Friday should phone Hedge End police on 0845 045 4545 or Crimestop-pers on 0800 555 111.