A dispersal order has been put in place in Basingstoke this weekend as officers continue to tackle anti-social behaviour at unauthorised car meets.

The order is in place between 7pm on Saturday 28 June and 7am on Sunday 29 June.

The dispersal order, authorised under Section 34 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, enables police to deal with any issues of anti-social behaviour in the area more effectively.

Officers will have additional powers to order a person to leave the area (pictured in the map) with no return within the specified time period. Those who refuse to comply with the order will be committing a criminal offence and are liable for arrest.

It comes after officers received reports of anti-social behaviour and dangerous driving at recent unauthorised car meets in the town.

Basingstoke Police Sergeant Pete Scamell said: “We have no objection to car enthusiasts meeting up socially, however motorists who drive in an anti-social manner risk the safety of road users and their behaviour disrupts our local communities.

“Our message is clear – anti-social behaviour and anti-social use of vehicles will not be tolerated in Basingstoke.

“We ask all drivers to act responsibly and drive safely. Illegal and anti-social behaviour will not go unchallenged, and action can include seizing vehicles, penalty notices, notifying insurance companies, dispersal notices or arrest and prosecution where necessary.

“The area covered is a large part of the district and we can quickly authorise the order in other areas if required. We will have extra officers on duty to support this weekend.

“If you have any concerns or information on any criminal activity taking place, please contact us on 101 or dial 999 if it is an emergency.”

You can also report incidents of dangerous or anti-social driving through Hants SNAP, which is a police initiative aimed at dealing with alleged road traffic offences.

For more information, visit https://www.hampshire.police.uk/police-forces/hampshire-constabulary/areas/hants-snap/hantsnap/hants-snap---report-an-incident/