YOBS are on notice that their misbehaviour in a town centre neighbourhood will no longer be tolerated.

Police and magistrates are responding to numerous complaints from residents fed up with anti-social behaviour, with the introduction of a dispersal order covering Middlesbrough town centre.

The order applies to the Gresham ward, which suffers a disproportionate degree of crime, compared to other neighbourhoods across the borough. It comes into force from tomorrow.

Sergeant Mark Hall and the Neighbourhood Policing Team have been busy displaying copies of the order across the ward. The posters warn youngsters they will be arrested if they fail to move on when ordered.

Sgt Hall said: "Young people need to be aware that we will not tolerate any form of anti-social or criminal behaviour and we are working closely with the community to help eliminate this.''

Youths found hanging about on street corners will be told about local youth clubs and sports activities being organised to keep them off the streets.