AN off-licence linked to anti-social behaviour has become the first in the town to be shutdown at court by Merseyside Police.

Booze N Food off licence and convenience store on Clock Face Road received the order at Liverpool and Knowsley Magistrates’ Court under section 80 of the Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014.

This comes after reports of groups of youths gathering outside the premises, causing noise.

Police state that this has had an effect on other businesses in the area.

The order prevents anyone, except those authorised by Merseyside Police or the owner of the building, to use the premises for specified purposes, which in this case involve maintenance and repair work.

The order is in force for three months and will expire on March 19.

It is the first time Merseyside Police have had a closure order granted for a licensed premises in St Helens.

Sergeant Kath Rackham said: “It is only through the support of the community that we were able to successfully apply for this order and we would like to thank them for their support.

“Merseyside Police is committed to looking after our communities and I would encourage anyone who has any issues in their neighbourhood to contact their local policing team.”