Dozens ordered out of seaside town after disorder

Dozens of people have been ordered out of Harbour Street in Broadstairs after a disturbance

Dozens of people including underage drinkers have been ordered out of a seaside town in Kent after a large group caused a disturbance, police have said.

Alcohol and cannabis was seized from teenagers in Broadstairs on Wednesday evening following an incident in the Harbour Street area, police said.

In total, 24 people were ordered to leave the area under a dispersal order, which ends on Friday, but could be extended.

Ch Insp Ian Swallow said anti-social behaviour "will not be tolerated" and action would be taken against perpetrators.

Kent Police said three people were also searched by officers, while two were given community resolutions for possession of cannabis.

Mr Swallow added: "From the start of the summer, I have been clear that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated and officers will aim to disrupt anyone who thinks they can cause upset to the community.

"The majority of people who visit Broadstairs are able to do so responsibly and without causing offence to others. But those who think they can come to the town or beach and make a nuisance of themselves have found out that their behaviour is not welcome here and that action is taken against them."

Dispersal orders were also issued in Broadstairs in June after shop owners were left "terrified" by youths who were filmed brawling and throwing chairs.

More than 5,000 people signed a petition calling for stronger measures to stop a "growing tide" of anti-social behaviour, including drink and drug use, looting and fighting.