POLICE officers have been given extra powers to tackle anti-social behaviour in Barry this week, following reports of problems over the weekend.

The crackdown coincides with the half-term school holiday, and South Wales Police has issued a warning to parents to deter their children from committing any bad behaviour.

A dispersal order for the town centre came into effect at midday on Monday and will last for 48 hours.

Local Policing Inspector Mark Henderson called the order a "preventative measure".

"We will have an increased presence in the area and officers won’t hesitate to enforce the extra powers afforded to them in order to keep the community safe," he explained.

"This dispersal order is in response to anti-social behaviour witnessed on Kings Square over the weekend.

"We urge parents and guardians to speak to their young people about not getting involved in anti-social behaviour during this half-term."

Police said the dispersal order, which is granted under the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014, will apply to all, including youths.

It means officers and PCSOs will be able to instruct anybody who is causing, or is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress to leave the area.

They will also have the power to seize any property which officers suspect is being used to cause anti-social behaviour.

Anyone with information or concerns about this matter should contact South Wales Police by one of the following means, quoting refence number 2300056877.

Live Chat (9am-4pm, Monday-Friday) online at www.south-wales.police.uk

Report online at www.south-wales.police.uk/ro/report

Email swp101@south-wales.police.uk

Call 101