Yobs gave their own verdict on plans for a second dispersal zone in Abingdon by ripping down and torching warning signs about it.

South Abingdon will be covered by a six-month trial Dispersal Order to combat antisocial behaviour and underage drinking from Monday.

A similar order launched last year is still operating in the Peachcroft district of north Abingdon.

Insp Christian Bunt said: "By law we have to display notices in shops and public places to publicise the Dispersal Order.

"Unfortunately within a few hours of the laminated signs going up on lamp posts some were torn down or burned.

"It is very disappointing and an indication of the problems facing the community.

"The Dispersal Order has proved a valuable tool in improving community life in Peachcroft, and with the help of the public we want to reproduce that success for the people of south Abingdon."

The dispersal area covers Reynolds Way shopping parade and green, Palmer Place and the car park and Cotman Close, including the play area. It also covers the grounds of local schools to ensure that problems are not simply displaced there.

Between 5pm and 6am officers will have powers to move groups away from the designated area and order them not to return within 24 hours.

If they return, they can be arrested. The park, which has facilities for young people, will not be covered by the order until 10pm.

Sgt Andy Cranidge, who heads the police team attached to the district Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG), said: "Many people I speak to are fed up with the graffiti, litter and vandalism in the area. It is caused by a small minority of youths who can be threatening and abusive to others.

"There are also problems with underage drinking. Cans and bottles litter the area, making it an unpleasant environment for everyone."

Sgt Cranidge added: "Young people who play football in the park or meet their friends without harassing anyone else or breaking the law can carry on. We are only interested in troublemakers."

One local resident, who did not want to be identified, said: "Some action needs taking to stop the bad behaviour. Let's hope the Dispersal Order will lead to an improvement for people in south Abingdon."

Supermarket owner Rajinder Parshad said over the years gangs of youths, many of them drinking, had caused trouble to shopkeepers and the public.

He said: "We have been subject to theft, damage, abuse and intimidation - but since the arrival of the CCTV cameras and more police visits things have improved.

"The Dispersal Order is another welcome step but we still need more police visibility, particularly at weekends. I hope the Order and the new action group will lead to an improved community atmosphere."

Vale of White Horse District Council leader Jerry Patterson blamed a small minority for the problems, and pointed out that there were alternatives to hanging around on street corners, including the new Net youth centre.