A RAFT of measures has been brought in to tackle complaints about Big Issue sellers in Bournemouth town centre.

Managers covering the town say the initiatives aim to prevent and tackle breaches in the code of conduct and to identify those acting antisocially while purporting to be vendors.

Last week, the Daily Echo reported that complaints about the behaviour of Big Issue sellers in the town are running at an all-time high.

Town centre manager Roger Parker said he has never had so many incidents raised with him by tourists and traders.

Complaints have been made about noise and shouting, sellers walking off pitches and going in front of people and accusations people are inebriated.

Regular meeting are already held between Big Issue staff, police officers, Police Community Support Officers, retailers and Mr Parker.

Now a complaint procedure will be introduced and incident forms will be sent to staff to record any problems in the area.

Big Issue staff will double the number of hours of outreach work they carry out in the town centre and branded jackets are going to be introduced which will make legitimate vendors easy to identify.