Mr McConnell had criticised the authorities for not using the powers

First Minister Jack McConnell said the �65,000 Scottish Executive-funded event had proved "extremely successful", attracting more than 6,500 visitors.

However, Scottish Tory leader Annabel Goldie accused Mr McConnell of "living in cloud-cuckoo land" over the problem.

The roadshow, which was backed by a television campaign, toured 15 council areas for three weeks in July.

It aimed to raise awareness about the resources available to residents affected by anti-social behaviour.

Several Holyrood ministers visited the roadshow truck, where specialist staff answered queries from members of the public.

We will not tolerate the type of selfish thuggery that ruins lives any longer First Minister Jack McConnell

As a result, more than 800 people had specific cases of anti-social behaviour referred to the relevant agencies.

Speaking as he visited Greenock, where the roadshow began its tour, the first minister said the event had showed people "that the resources and powers are here to help them".

"This roadshow has helped our Scottish government make clear it is on the side of decent, hard-working families who want to stop anti-social behaviour blighting their community," he said.

"We have created the new powers and delivered extra money to tackle the problem."

In June Mr McConnell criticised councils and police forces, claiming the powers were not being used in enough parts of Scotland.

'Police presence'

However, he said he was now confident that attitudes would change.

"I believe that the roadshow has sent out a strong message to those responsible for anti-social behaviour," he said.

"We will not tolerate the type of selfish thuggery that ruins lives any longer."

But Ms Goldie called for more police on the beat.

She said: "The first minister is still living in cloud-cuckoo land.

"It is time that we put in place the measures that can protect the public and address offending.

"Across Scotland, people are crying out for a much more visible police presence in their communities: more police patrolling the streets to deter crime and catch criminals."