EXTRA police powers to deal with youths terrorising Portchester residents and shopkeepers were due to come into force tonight.

From midnight, officers will be able to move on groups harassing or alarming locals, in a bid to combat anti-social behaviour.

The dispersal order gives police the power to break up groups involved in anti-social behaviour. It would also enable officers to escort anyone under 16 who is involved in a gang back to their home. Once directed by a police officer to leave the area, it will be an offence to refuse to co-operate or return within 24 hours.

Those who refuse could face up to three months' jail or a fine of up to £5,000.

The area covered is bordered by Westlands Grove, White Hart Lane, Castle Street, the Red Lion Roundabout, and the A27 to the junction of West Street and Westlands Grove. Police were forced to take action after a three-month check of reported crime in Portchester showed ball-bearing guns and other weapons being used and gangs of up to 30 youths at a time fighting in the street.

Drivers had eggs and stones thrown at their cars and residents were assaulted. Shopkeepers have been robbed and had their windows smashed. Police were inundated with calls from people feeling intimidated, harassed or distressed as a result of the presence of youths.

Sergeant Karen Dawes has called on residents to come together to fight "yobbish" behaviour. She said: "Police and Fareham council want to work closely with the community over this. Residents of Portchester know that we will do everything within our powers to reduce anti-social behaviour."