Sussex's first yob no-go zone to deal with bad drivers has been launched to tackle boy racers.

The order will cover Hastings Old Town and runs for three months from October 14 at midnight.

It is being introduced following complaints from residents in the area around Rock-a-Nore Road about boy-racers and moped riders.

They have complained of antisocial and dangerous driving.

The order gives police, or police community support officers, the powers to disperse two or more people, if they are likely to cause distress, alarm or harassment, for up to 24 hours.

If they do not abide by the order, or return within the 24 hour period, they are liable to be arrested or could have their vehicle seized.

The area will also be patrolled by more police and community support officers.

Sergeant Alan Gates, of Sussex Police, said: "The local residents and businesses have turned to Hastings Police for help with what has been a significant problem particularly around Rock-a-Nore Road.

"We have studied the evidence gathered with help from the Safer Hastings Partnership and successfully applied for a dispersal order.

"Other areas of the country have encountered similar problems and utilised this legislation with good effect.

"I am hoping that the small proportion of drivers who drive their vehicles in this manner will see sense, but if they continue to drive anti socially with disregard for other road users, they will face arrest, prosecution, points on their licence and perhaps the removal of their vehicle."

Earlier this year a three-month dispersal order was introduced in areas of the seafront, Warrior Square and parts of the town centre.

Police had received complaints from residents about vandalism, drunkenness, assaults, antisocial behaviour and public disorder.

It is believed the most recent order is the first in the county to be introduced to tackle drivers.

Two children were injured in August this year after a boy-racer crashed his car on Hastings seafront near the Deluxe Arcade.

Five people in total were injured in the crash, including a six-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl, and four vehicles were involved.

Chief Inspector Tony Blaker, Hastings District Commander, said: "This initiative is a result of local people contacting their local police officer and PCSO to highlight anti-social behaviour.

"I would encourage other communities to bring such problems to our attention as we are committed to delivering a local policing service that better meets the needs of Hastings residents."

Police are urging members of the public to contact them with information about dangerous or antisocial driving on 01273 404274 or 0845 6070999.

Alternatively, they can email www.operationcrackdown.org Do you live in or near a dispersal zone? Has it worked? Perhaps you are blighted by anti-social drivers? Leave your comments below.

For more information about crime in your area visit the local information section of our website.