BUSINESSES and youth leaders have united in Sturminster Newton in a bid to stamp out antisocial behaviour in the town.

More police will patrol the town at weekends in a bid to target troublemakers and reassure residents.

Police have decided on the measure after stepping back from applying for legal powers to split up the youths, who gather in the town centre on Friday nights.

“A Section 30 Dispersal Order was considered, along with other options, as a potential method for dealing with antisocial behaviour within Sturminster Newton town centre,” said a police spokesman.

“However, in recent weeks other methods of addressing this issue have proved successful and, as a result, a Section 30 Dispersal Order will not be applied for by the police at this time.

“There has been a high- visibility policing presence in the area in order to both deter any potential troublemakers and also to reassure residents of the area,” he added.

Community groups, youth leaders and businesses have joined forces to provide activities for young people.

Yasar Helvaci, the proprietor of the town’s Poets Corner café, has opened late on the first Friday of every month to provide a place for young people to meet.

“I have been in the town since 1996 and this has been going on for a number of years. It’s got to the point now where something needs to be done.

“Young people want somewhere to go where they can sit and chat and play games, but with supervision.

“Somebody has to care. I think this could be an example for other small businesses in North Dorset who may be able to help young people before they start drinking or taking drugs.

“Hopefully, this will help young people and their families,” said Mr Helvaci.

Youth worker Mike Bennett said hosting sessions of the town’s youth club at the café had proved popular.