EFFORTS to stamp out anti-social behaviour in an area of Christchurch are still ongoing after a derelict care home was boarded up in a bid to tackle the problem.

Police have been patrolling part of Friars Cliff following a number of incidents including criminal damage, fires, underage drinking, and drug use.

It follows recent attempts to stem a spate of anti-social behaviour at Pinebeach Nursing Home, which closed in 2015.

The empty building was frequently used by rough sleepers, drug takers, and vandals, but was boarded up around a fortnight ago.

County councillor Lesley Dedman said the borough council had been “trying to put a stop" to the problem.

“As of a fortnight ago, after a long period when it was open to vandals, the unused nursing home has been fenced in.

“This was a horrible time for those of us who loved the care home to see the graffiti, the filth on the floor, and the lovely light fittings smashed – and all for ‘fun’ for the groups of young people who broke in.

“The borough councillors and myself are liaising with the community policing team and our own council officers to keep on top of the situation of anti-social behaviour.

“Residents, particularly the elderly, find it intimidating. I have people frequently phoning up to report things like charred grass where fires have been lit.”

She added: “Now that the draw of the empty building is gone, we are hoping these young people will find something better to do than cause damage.

“We live in such a wonderful area, with so much to do, and there is no need to cause wanton damage just for ‘fun’.”

Police officers have been carrying out regular patrols at Friars Cliff, enforcing dispersal orders where necessary.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: “Mudeford and Highcliffe Neighbourhood Policing Team have dealt with a number of incidents of anti-social behaviour at Friars Cliff recreation area.

“This includes: underage drinking, recreational use of cannabis, fires, and criminal damage to toilets.

“Officers have been carrying out high-visibility patrols in the area on a regular basis to check for any anti-social behaviour and to reassure the community.”