EXTRA police officers will be on duty in next week in a crackdown on anti-social behaviour and alcohol-fuelled crime and disorder during the half-term holiday, and also leading up to Halloween and bonfire night.

“This is historically a period when anti-social behaviour goes up,” said south-east Kent police Chief Inspector Roy Cottam.

“Our main aim is to improve the quality of life for communities in the Dover district and to provide reassurance that anti-social criminality is being addressed.

“A dedicated police sergeant will monitor every call made to the control centre to ensure that police resources are sent to where they are most needed as quickly as possible.

“Patrols will be deployed to maintain a high level of police visibility, especially in areas that have been identified as having more reported incidents, and will deal swiftly with offenders.”

Officers will be enforcing the Firework Regulations which make it an offence for anyone under 18 to be in possession of a firework.

They will also take action against anyone selling fireworks to people aged under that age.

The Licensing Enforcement Team will visit on and off licensed premises to ensure that the laws relating to the sale and consumption of alcohol are being upheld.

Particular attention will be paid to cases where alcohol is being served or sold to drunk people and those under 18.