Arrests made, patrols increased and new powers used as police make bid to tackle Worksop town centre pests

Operation Yarely was launched following concerns raised by members of the public about ASB including drunk and disorderly behaviour and the use of psychoactive substances in the town centre.

Officers have conducted increased proactive patrols and been using powers available to them to tackle the issue, working closely in partnership with Bassetlaw District Council.

As a result of the proactive patrols, officers arrested a 49-year-old man for failing to attend court and a 62-year-old man who was wanted on recall to prison.

Inspector Neil Bellamy, Bassetlaw district commander at Nottinghamshire Police, said: “This operation was launched in response to concerns of antisocial behaviour in the town centre linked to drugs and alcohol use.

“I am pleased with the results so far and I hope that it sends out the message that we will not tolerate drugs or ASB in our communities.”

Officers also issued three directions to leave which allow them to disperse problematic individuals under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act for a period of up to 48 hours.

These orders are intended to deal with any nuisance issues within a defined area that are detrimental to the community’s quality of life.

Gerald Connor, community safety co-ordinator at Bassetlaw District Council, said: “We take all reported incidents of anti-social behaviour seriously and will not hesitate to use the full range of enforcement options available to tackle the problem.

“In addition, the Bassetlaw, Newark and Sherwood Partnership aims to utilise all suitable methods of intervention, including referrals to specialist agencies as an alternative enforcement action.

“However, should an individual not wish to engage, with these specialist services, further action will be taken by the Council, police or both.”

Operation Yarely will be running in the Worksop town centre for a number of months.