Council urges people to flag anti-social behaviour

A PSPO, issued in May, gives additional powers to Surrey Police and council officers

A Surrey council has urged residents to report incidents of anti-social behaviour whenever possible in an ongoing bid to tackle the problem.

The reminder follows a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), introduced in May, which gives additional powers to Surrey Police and Spelthorne Borough Council officers to act against behaviours that cause nuisance or distress.

A council spokesperson said: "Anti-social behaviour can have a serious impact on individuals and neighbourhoods."

Anyone who refuses to comply with instructions from an authorised officer may receive a Fixed Penalty Notice or face prosecution.

The PSPO covers issues such as the anti-social use of bicycles, e-bikes, skateboards, e-scooters, hoverboards and similar devices.

It also covers wearing face coverings like masks, balaclavas or scarves in a manner that causes alarm or concern, and carrying catapults, slingshots or similar items without a legitimate reason.

The council added that many incidents go unreported and people who witness anti-social behaviour should report it to the police or the council.