POLICE have stepped up patrols following a spate of anti-social behaviour in a Christchurch neighbourhood.

After a series of reported incidents in the Friars Cliff area, multi-agency meetings took place involving the fire service, local authorities and businesses.

Residents have witnessed various acts of anti-social behaviour in several locations.

Police confirmed they received three reports of anti-social behaviour in the Friars Cliff Green area last week.

PC Mark Creasey, Christchurch Neighbourhood Policing Team, Tweeted: "We are getting high volume of calls to Friars Cliff Green once again.

"Sadly ASB and mindless damage has resumed. Please discourage your children going here."

Sergeant Kerry Shelley, of Christchurch police, told the Daily Echo: “We are aware of reports of anti-social behaviour in the Friars Cliff area.

“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team attend multi-agency meetings, along with the fire service, local authorities and local businesses to discuss the issue.

“Targeted patrols are being carried out in the area. The team will act on information from members of the community and anyone with concerns can speak to local officers.

“We would ask anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour to report it to Dorset Police.”

The recent incidents included criminal damage to a derelict building on Southcliffe Road.

The area has been blighted by periods of disorder for several years, with recurring incidents at the Pinebeach Nursing Home building, which has been unoccupied since 2015.

Mudeford and Friars Cliff ward councillor Paul Hilliard said residents should always report incidents of anti-social behaviour.

"In previous years we have spoken to police and asked them to increase patrols of green spaces, parks and at the beach because it seems to coincide with exams finishing and the lighter evenings," Cllr Hilliard said.

"There is enough things for young people to be doing, but they like to do their own thing.

"I have heard they tried to make a fire on the green near Steamer Point. Police were contacted and they got there very quickly.

"It is just so difficult to control it. People need to be vigilant at all times.

"Parents have a responsibility to know what their children are up to."