A DISPERSAL order aiming to band troublemakers from hanging around on streets has been extended for six months.

The Responsible Authorities Group believes the ruling that has been in place since July 2010 has been effective in reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

The order gives officers power to move groups of two or more people on from the Dovercourt High Street and several adjoining roads and ban repeat offenders for up to 24 hours.

It has now been extended until July 3 2014.