YOUTHS are being warned that anti-social behaviour in Winsford will be dealt with by police 'in a robust way'.

Officers have launched an operation to clamp down on anti-social behaviour in the town centre ahead of the half-term break next week.

With police continuing to receive calls about the problem, beat managers, the special constabulary and Cheshire West and Chester Council's anti-social behaviour unit are working together to help residents feel safer.

Sgt Daniel Haddock, from the Northwich local policing unit, told the Guardian: "There has been an increase is anti-social behaviour in Winsford town centre, which is centred around the multi-storey car park.

"Police will be increasing patrols in the area and any youths identified as being involved in anti-social behaviour will be dealt with in a robust way in partnership with our anti-social behaviour unit.

"As a parent, please ensure you advise your children not to use the town centre as a gathering place, and the multi-storey car park is not a bike track or playground."

Insp Andrew Smith, from the Northwich local policing unit, added: "As the school holiday season approaches, with February half-term and Easter coming quite close together, it’s important we find a way to reduce the problem and support the community."

Anyone who can identify young people who are causing anti-social behaviour, or the locations where it is taking place, is asked to call Sgt Haddock via 101, or email daniel.haddock@cheshire.pnn.police.uk