Unruly beachgoers will be moved on or arrested as part of a bid to combat anti-social behaviour along a seafront stretch.

This comes after officers received several calls about a large group of young people causing a disturbance on the beach near Marine Road, Deal, at about 10pm on Thursday.

On the same evening, there was also a report of anti-social behaviour at the town's railway station at midnight.

A spokesman for the police says officers attended and spoke with a number of people.

In the wake of the incidents, a dispersal order has been put in place covering Deal seafront and the surrounding areas between Sandown and Walmer from 6pm yesterday until 6pm on Sunday, August 16.

Chief Insp Elena Hall said: "We appreciate that anti-social behaviour is usually carried out by a minority, however it can be very distressing for local residents.

"While it is expected that young people may want to spend time at the seaside during the good weather, officers will take action if they are found to be behaving irresponsibly and causing distress within the local community."

Over the weekend, officers will be able to stop anyone involved in anti-social behaviour and move them on from the area.

If they fail to leave, or return to the area while the dispersal order is in force, they could be arrested.

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