A BENCH attracting street drinkers has been relocated by police.

The bench, located in Boscombe high street, was reportedly being occupied by individuals drinking alcohol, swearing, arguing and ‘being a nuisance’.

Bournemouth Police said relocating the bench elsewhere has ‘already proven to be effective’, with businesses in the area providing ‘great feedback’ regarding the change.

Officers wrote on social media: “We are aware of the Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) and Street drinking in Boscombe precinct thanks to reports from our local community and businesses.

The former site of the benchThe former site of the bench (Image: Bournemouth Police) “We have been conducting partnership working with other agencies such as BCP Council to tackle these issues.

"After much discussion and brainstorming, Boscombe Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) and other agencies have decided to relocate one of the benches on Boscombe precinct.

“Street drinkers would gravitate towards this bench and occupy it all day whilst drinking alcohol, swearing, arguing and being a nuisance for the local community.”

In further measures to tackle ASB, police have been conducting daily patrols in Boscombe and have been issuing Section 35 Dispersal Notices to anyone who is causing or is likely to cause ASB in the area.

Anyone who receives one cannot return to the location for a period of up to 48 hours.

Officers are also working with the council to provide appropriate sanctions to those who continue to repeat this behaviour on a daily basis.

Bournemouth Police said: “We will be patrolling this area daily and dealing with any ASB robustly. Please inform of us any occurrences or sightings of ASB you are witnessing in the area. Feel free to stop any of our officers for a chat if you see them in the area.

“You can also report information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.

“If a crime is in progress or life is in danger, dial 999 immediately.”