Stroud police deployed dispersal orders in a park last week in an effort to curb shouting, swearing and drug use.

Police patrolling the Queen Elizabeth Park II in Dudbridge issued 14 dispersal orders to young people on Friday night as part of an effort to crack down on ‘anti-social behaviour’ reported by those living nearby.

Those who receive a dispersal order risk arrest if they return to the area within 24 hours - police claim that there were no incidents in the park the following night.

Police only have the power to issue dispersal orders once they are authorised by an officer of Inspector level, lasting for 48 hours.

Stroud Inspector Sarah Blake said that police are prepared to take young people home to speak with their parents or guardians.

“We are aware of a rise in anti-social behaviour related incidents in certain areas of Stroud recently,” she said.

“If people are seen to be causing a problem in the area they will be told to leave and we can use dispersal order tactics to move people on if necessary.

“In some cases, where appropriate, police will look to take youngsters home and their parents or guardians will be spoken to.

“We want these children to enjoy their summer break responsibly, without causing unnecessary issues for our local community.”

The upping of efforts against anti-social behaviour by Stroud Police follows an meeting organised by Stroud Town Council last week.

About fifty people from a wide range of organisations attended, including councillors and officers from the town, district and county councils, MP David Drew, support organisations, doctors, pharmacists and local businesses.

Mayor of Stroud Kevin Cranston said: “I am delighted that we received such a positive response to our invitation to work together to deal with wide range of complex and interconnected issues.

“These range from alcohol and drug use by different groups to vandalism and graffiti.

"All need to be tackled so that we can help make sure people who live and work in Stroud feel safe."