A high visibility police operation which was successful in tackling crime and disorder in Weymouth last year has been launched again for the summer.

The 100 Days of Summer policing campaign sees extras officers on the streets focusing on key locations in the town centre.

A similar campaign last year was shown the dedicated foot patrols helped to reduce anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and public place violence in the town.

In particular, reports of anti-social behaviour fell by 22 per cent over the summer in the Melcombe Regis (central) area of the town. The number of shoplifting reports also fell by 35 per cent and public place violence fell by 18 per cent between June and August.

A Dorset Police social media poll found that 84 per cent of people felt the initiative had been successful, with 78 per cent agreeing that the town had felt safer as a result.

Tactics used in the operation are based on a crime reduction theory originating in America which suggests that random 10-15 minute patrols at least every two hours in particular hot spots prevents problems from happening.

The success of last year has prompted the force to run the campaign again. It started at the end of May and will run for 100 days.

Police constables and police community support officers (PCSOs) will be visible around the town on a daily basis and will be supported by special constables.

Weymouth and Portland Neighbourhood Policing Team Sergeant Sam Goom said: “We are committed to ensuring that residents and visitors to Weymouth feel safe and are able to enjoy their time here.

“Reports of anti-social behaviour and violence in the town were down last year compared to previous years due to the success of our 100 Days of Summer Initiative and we are keen to continue this positive trend.

“Weymouth remains a safe place but there is always room to make things better for residents and visitors.”

Officers and PCSOs will be able to make use of dispersal powers to direct people away from the town or surrender alcohol if they have been acting in an anti-social manner. Anyone who continues to come to notice will be considered for further action such as community protection notices and criminal behaviour orders.

Weymouth town centre beat manager PC Chris Meade, said: “We regularly receive feedback from the community that they want our officers to be out and about on foot patrol rather than on patrol in vehicles.

“We’re confident our 100 Days of Summer initiative will again have a significant impact on the town centre and surrounding areas.”

Keep up to date on the team’s work by following ‘Weymouth and Portland Police’ on Facebook and @WeyPortPolice on Twitter and Instagram for the latest news or search the hashtag #100DaysofSummer