WINCHESTER police and civic chiefs have imposed the city's first dispersal order to clampdown on antisocial behaviour on an estate.

Starting today, the order covers Garbett Road in Winnall and gives officers the powers to arrest people who do not move on when asked.

They face fines of up to £5,000 and three months in prison.

The police expect the order will significantly reduce antisocial behaviour in the area. It will run until October 31.

Sgt John Stribley, of North Walls police, the local beat sergeant, said: "This is the first one in Winchester. Its success will be measured. I can foresee that members of the public in other areas, seeing how effective this will be, will be more willing to engage with the police."

He said the need for the order in Winnall became apparent through public feedback to the police via the 101 phone number, neighbourhood wardens and accredited community support officers.

Sgt Karen Fisher said: "This dispersal order is necessary because of the amount of problems with youths near to local shops and antisocial behaviour in the area. We have worked with local businesses and residents to identify the problems within the community, leading to the new measures."