POLICE sent 39 yobs packing since introducing tough new antisocial behaviour measures in Rochford.

Officers brought in a six-month dispersal order last month, to cut the number of young troublemakers in certain areas.

Chief Insp Glen Westley said the move was clearly working.

He said: “We have had e-mails from residents saying what a difference it is making. The youths aren’t congregating around Boleyn House and The Square anymore.

“I’m pleased with the way it’s going, but we have got to stay on the front foot.

“As the weather starts to improve and the lighter evenings come in, we will be rigorously enforcing the order.”

The new powers enable officers to give two or more youngsters marching orders from areas covered by the measures.

Officers can also escort home suspected troublemakers aged 16 or under. Anyone who returns faces arrest.

Police arrested two of the 39 people, because they refused to leave the area.

Rochford councillor James Cottis said residents were pleased with the improvement.

He said: “I think it’s going pretty well. Anything to keep crime and nuisance down is a good thing.

“I think, when the six months comes up, the order should be extended to cover the whole district.

“If the order is working in this area it will work elsewhere too.”

The order covers Weir Pond Road, East Street, Back Lane, Union Lane, Roche Close and North Street from its junction with Roche Close to Weir Pond Road.