Leicestershire Police have had their extra powers, which allow them to deal with groups of people causing a nuisance, extended for six months.

They were first granted the additional powers by Oadby and Wigston Borough Council at a meeting in May.

They were introduced by the Home Office under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act which allows police to disperse groups.

Escorts home

If people are found who do not live in the area then they will be banned from the area for 24 hours.

If people under 16 are found after 2100 GMT then they are escorted home.

Martin Halse, inspector, Wigston local policing unit said: "These powers have proved to be a useful tool for the police in dealing with the problem of anti-social behaviour by large groups of youths in Wigston and South Wigston over the last six months.

"Residents of Oadby highlighted various areas of concern to us, including the fact that groups were gathering on footpaths and in other public places and intimidating local people, and that alcohol-fuelled crime was becoming increasing prevalent in Main Street."