A DISPERSAL order was put in place in Ringwood town centre over the weekend following reports of anti-social behaviour. 

The order was in response to a variety of reports to the p[olice, including assaults, robbery, dangerous dogs, public order, begging and members of the public being drunk and disorderly.  

Ringwood Neighbourhood Policing Team made the order in effect from Friday evening (June 17) through to 9.21pm on Sunday, June 19 as part of a clamp down on anti-social behaviour in the town centre. 

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New Forest District Commander, Chief Inspector Helen Andrews, said: “A dispersal order was put in place over the weekend in Ringwood, which expired late Sunday evening (19 June) to tackle increasing levels of anti-social behaviour in Ringwood town centre.  

“The order gave officers the power to disperse people involved in anti-social behaviour in the area, as well as the power to seize anything used in the commission of anti-social behaviour. 

“Officers issued two dispersal notices during this time period; one to an individual for being drunken and disorderly outside a supermarket in Poulner and a further dispersal notice for a separate individual for begging outside a supermarket on Meeting House Lane.  

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“Other than those few incidents, we are pleased to say that the dispersal order has had the desired impact and that there have been no new reports made by local residents or business owners; however, officers will continue to patrol the area.  

“Our local neighbourhood policing team have been out in the community and engaged with the local residents and business owners about the issues impacting the area and taken the time to listen to their ongoing concerns.  

“Thank you to all of those who have complied and respected the dispersal order, your co-operation has been very much appreciated.”