THUGGISH behaviour remains the biggest worry for people living in the centre of Winchester.

A meeting between police officers and residents of Highcliffe, Winnall, Hyde and Abbotts Barton took place on July 23.

The safer neighbourhoods policing team fielded questions from concerned residents at All Saints Church Hall in Highcliffe.

As with the last Police and Communities Together event (PACT), tackling anti-social behaviour was set as the top priority for officers.

Much of the blame was alleged to come from those living in shelters and homeless hostels.

But Sgt Matt Fancett told those gathered that disturbances in the area are down and that police are receiving far fewer calls.

He said afterwards: “My team will be working closely with hostels to identify those involved and to target them. We will ensure that we take a firm and robust line with them. We can use our powers of seizing alcohol, dispersing individuals likely to cause a problem, and working closely with local establishments.”