POLICE will be handed extra powers to deal with youths terrorising Portchester residents and shopkeepers from the end of this month.

Plans for a dispersal order to combat antisocial behaviour were given the thumbs up by civic chiefs last night.

Officers have been 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.

Motorists also suffered eggs and stones being thrown at their cars and residents were assaulted and threatened.

Shopkeepers have been robbed and their windows smashed.

In a CCTV video of a typical night in Portchester precinct, youths are seen tearing a bench apart and using the parts for an impromptu game of golf.

Insp Simon Wrigglesworth said: "We're making it clear that we mean business and we're determined to stop this behaviour in Portchester."

The six-month trial scheme has got the backing of ward member Councillor Roger Price.

He said: "We have suffered in Portchester and why should people suffer from a minority. This will give the police an extra tool in their armoury or piece of ammunition to deal with it."

The order would give police the power to disperse groups involved in antisocial 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.

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.