POLICE have brought in new powers to move on gangs of yobs who have been upsetting elderly residents.

The move is part of a crackdown on anti-social behaviour in the Ropers Bridge area of Whiston.

The Section 30 'designated area' gives police powers to: break up groups of two or more people who are causing anti-social behaviour, send under 16s home, arrest anyone who ignores their instructions.

The powers were introduced in St Helens town centre earlier this year after ongoing problems with youth disorder.

The designated area will run for three months from Sunday, 1 June to Monday, 1 September, covering Ropers Bridge Close in Whiston, including Little Croft and the adjoining vehicle parking areas.

The order, supported by Knowsley Council, will be in force every day between 6pm and midnight.

Neighbourhood Sergeant for Whiston, Terry Pearson, said: "The order will be regularly patrolled by uniformed officers who will be targeting the small minority of people who are determined to cause problems for local people and businesses.

“It's not aimed at the vast majority of law abiding people in Whiston.”

A spokesperson for Knowsley Council added: “This is good news for local people, including many elderly residents, who have been experiencing various problems with youths and ASB.”