TRAFFIC wardens and street wardens in Castle Point have been given special police powers in the fight against antisocial behaviour.

Castle Point parking attendants and council staff who work in the community have been given special accreditation under a new scheme.

It will allow them to take down details of troublemakers, confiscate alchohol and cigarettes and issue fines to cyclists riding on footpaths.

Police have confirmed it is the latest move in a bid to tackle the ever-growing problems caused by antisocial behaviour and reduce the fear of crime and disorder across the borough.

Those given the new powers have undergone training under the Community Safety Ac-creditation Scheme and have passed a final exam.

Essex Police CSAS Manager, Jay Smith, said: "These accredited persons can make a significant difference in improving the quality of life within local communities.

"By working in partnership with the police, accredited staff can now deal appropriately with those antisocial behavioural issues that affect the community."

The three parking attendants, two street scene officers and two members of Southend Hospital's security staff were among the first to join the scheme and were welcomed to the "extended police family" by Chief Supt Dave Folkard, divisional commander of the south east Essex police division, in a special ceremony at the council offices.

He said: "These new additions to the policing family means there are more eyes and ears across the division. We can use the intelligence they provide to reduce crime and disorder, which has such a detrimental impact on the lives of law-abiding residents."

David Marchant, Castle Point Council chief executive, said: "Community safety is a priority for the council, so we are delighted to be working with the police to make Castle Point a safer place.

"My congratulations go to the officers involved for achieving this accreditation.

"We hope to reduce antisocial behaviour through education, but it is important our officers also have the power to take action when necessary."