ANTI-social behaviour in what should be a peaceful area of Okehampton is being targetted in a new partnership movement.

West Devon Borough Council and the police are working hard to combat the problems which have been occurring on land behind the Lidl's supermarket by implementing powers held under a Designated Public Place Order.

The DPPO was made by the borough council last December.

It includes the whole of the town's centre and the surrounding neighbourhood, which means that police officers can use their powers in this area immediately, without having to apply to have the order extended to include it.

A DPPO gives additional powers to a police officer or a police community support officer to require people to stop drinking straight away and confiscate their alcohol where appropriate.

Known problem spots are regularly patrolled and the additional powers, along with other measures, can help prevent anti-social behaviour.

Cllr Mandy Govier, chair of the South Devon and Dartmoor Community Safety Partnership, said: 'The borough council is pleased that since the introduction of the DDPO, figures relating to this type of behaviour have shown a marked decrease and we are using these powers to work with the police to restore a peaceful environment to this area.'

James Mitchell, development executive for Lidl's, said: 'Lidl's are delighted that the DDPO is in place and strongly support the support the powers that this gives the local police.

'Since the order came into force we have not been aware of any serious incidents of anti-social behaviour and understand that there has been a significant reduction in incidents generally.

'We commend the local authority and the police for their approach and will do all we can to support the initiatives.'

Police are asking the public to help by informing them of this type of behaviour whenever they witness it. Okehampton Police Station can be contacted by phoning 08452 777444.

For further information on the DPPO contact Louisa Wall, community safety officer, on 01822 813720 or email [email protected]">[email protected]