LITTER louts and pet owners who let their dogs foul the streets will soon have no hiding place.

A group of 11 community safety officers belonging to the council's city patrol team have been armed with new powers to issue £50 fines.

They will strengthen the city council's existing four officers, who already enjoy the powers introduced for the first time last year.

Since April last year the city patrol has issued 244 fixed penalty notices for litter and dog fouling and carried out 19 prosecutions for nuisance behaviour. Officers have also provided a uniformed presence in their easily distinguishable light blue shirts aimed at reducing antisocial behaviour in the city.

Roy Russell, senior city enforcement officer said: "The additional powers that accreditation gives City Patrol will help us tackle antisocial behaviour on the streets more effectively."

Hampshire's Chief Constable Paul Kernaghan said: "The prime minister pledged to increase the number of police community support officers and community safety officers."

He added: "The current accredited community support officers, employed by the council, have done a great job."

Executive director for housing, communities and regeneration Nick Murphy said: "Compared to other cities, Southampton is a relatively safe city but we are doing all we can to make it the safest."

He added: "Our message to those who are intent on causing disruption is that we will not stand for it."

Each officer received their accreditation at a ceremony hosted by mayor Councillor Dennis Harryman.