POLICE have increased their presence in a town amid a rise in youth offending.

Arun Police said patrols have stepped up in “hot spots” around Bognor after concerns of antisocial behaviour in recent days.

Chief Inspector Nick Bowman, District Commander for Arun and Chichester, said the local community had raised the concerns.

“I’d like to reassure the public that we are aware of community concerns in relation to youth disorder and antisocial behaviour in the town over the past few days,” he said.

“We have listened to these concerns and increased police activity in hot spots areas including the seafront and Hotham Park.”

He said the police continue to work with partners to “prevent and detect any form of criminality”.

“We are also in regular contact with local councillors and business owners, and will be meeting with them further to discuss and address these issues,” he added.

“Public safety is our priority, and we want the local community not only to be safe, but to feel safe too.”

Chief Inspector Bowman also reminded the public that the increased patrols are in addition to the routine patrols which are carried out 365 days a year.

He added: “It is vital that where you witness or experience an incident, you report it to us online or via 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.

“Please do not report it to us via social media; reporting it via the appropriate channels in a timely manner enables us take appropriate action and build up intelligence in order to combat youth offending.”