Police will move along troublemakers

The decision to take action in Melbourne followed months of problems in the south Derbyshire town.

People will face fines of up to �2,500 if they fail to move on when asked to do so by uniformed police.

Under the new powers, anyone under the age of 16 can be taken to their home address by officers if they refuse to return on their own.

Cans and bottles

A report from Derbyshire Crime and Disorder Partnership said: "Youths congregate in numbers of up to 70 without warning."

Melbourne has a significant and persistent anti- social behaviour problem Pc Chris Staley

The decision comes after problems with drunk and disorderly behaviour, possession of cannabis and thefts of mopeds.

"Businesses frequently have to clear up bottles, cans, cigarette stubs, stale urine and vomit from their doorways," the report said.

The powers came into effect on 27 September and will until midnight on 3 January 2005.

Anti-social behaviour officer Sue Haslett said the move would help reduce the fear of crime and also cut levels of offences, noise and intimidation.

Pc Chris Staley, community police officer for the Melbourne area, said: "Melbourne is a very attractive place and does not have a serious crime rate in terms of offences such as burglary and robbery.