POLICE have been handed extra powers following a spike in anti-social behaviour on part of the Hampshire coastline.

Dispersal powers are in place at Hordle Cliffs between 6pm today and 6pm on Sunday following a series of incidents over the Easter bank holiday weekend.

The dispersal zone includes beach huts, some of which were damaged during a previous incident.

It gives police the power to disperse people under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. They can also seize any items used in the commission of anti-social behaviour.

Those under 16 will be taken home address and follow-up work will be done with parents.

Inspector Mike Minnock said: “We will be conducting high visibility patrols in these areas to reassure the public and deal with any issues.

“People should also be aware that congregating in groups larger than six may be a breach of Covid-19 regulations.

"We will always seek to engage, explain and educate with members of the public, with enforcement as a last resort.”