POLICE have been given a new weapon in the battle to clamp down on rowdy youths responsible for vandalism and anti-social behaviour in parks and gardens in the Richmond area.

Until now, officers have had only limited powers when they have had to deal with anyone deemed to be a nuisance.

However, from Monday, patrols will be able to confiscate alcohol from anyone caught causing trouble in five designated areas.

Richmond's Ronaldshay Park, Castle Walk, the Batts and Friary Gardens and Coronation Park in Catterick Garrison will all come under Sections 12 to 16 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001, which addresses the consumption of alcohol in public places.

"Most people behave in a reasonable way in public places but there are some who spoil other people's enjoyment by causing nuisance, littering and other anti-social behaviour as a result of drinking too much," said Richmondshire Community Safety Co-ordinator, Lynda MacDougall.

"By designating public places, the partnership hopes to reduce the problem."

The new regulations were welcomed by Richmond's mayor, Councillor Stuart Parsons, who has pioneered the Richmond Pride initiative since coming to office last year.

The campaign has often had to focus on clearing litter and repairing damage done by gangs of youths fuelled by alcohol.

One of the stone old bollards guarding the entrance to Castle Walk from New Lane was ripped from its mountings on Wednesday night.

"Hopefully, the regulations will help us reinforce the message that there is behaviour which is perfectly acceptable and some which is not," said Coun Parsons.

"It would be fantastic to go for a stroll around somewhere like Castle Walk on a Sunday morning without finding it's been spoiled by people who have been there the night before and left rubbish all over the footpaths and in the bushes and trees.

"However, we should stress the new rules will only work if they are enforced; it's no good having these measures if they are not going to be applied."