A dispersal order is in force following reports of yobs hurling abuse at passers-by and shop workers.

The measures have been introduced by police after the incidents in Murston and Great Easthall, Sittingbourne, over the past few weeks.

Teenagers have been seen "poorly riding" quadbikes and mopeds, in addition to swimming in a lake off Mulberry Way, according to officers.

The public and shop staff were verbally abused in Murston Road, Church Road and Harkness Court areas.

The dispersal order gives officers the power to move on any individual who they suspect is involved, or likely to become involved in, nuisance behaviour.

It also gives patrols the power to escort anyone under the age of 18 home.

Inspector Joel Mitchell, from the Swale Community Safety Unit, said: "After what has been a very disruptive year, we fully understand why people want to enjoy the summer months but that cannot be to the detriment of the wider community.

"Since the beginning of the school holidays, we have already received 11 reports of nuisance and abusive behaviour in this particular area and that cannot be allowed to continue.

"Our officers will regularly be patrolling the Murston and Great Easthall areas and will not hesitate to take proportionate action on anyone who exercises a disregard for the wellbeing and wishes of the surrounding community.

"I also encourage anyone affected by such behaviour to make a report, either through our website or by calling 101. This will help us continue to monitor the problem and determine any future courses of action."

The order will remain in place until Friday and failure to comply with an instruction to leave the area is an offence that risks arrest.

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