'Dispersal zone' to cut Soho crime

An area in and around Soho has been designated a "dispersal zone", giving police the authority to remove troublemakers and take home unaccompanied children under 16.

The scheme, using powers introduced by David Blunkett when he was home secretary, was credited with cutting crime when it was first tried in the West End last year.

Since its reintroduction on 7 May, 50 adults have been removed from the area. There were eight arrests of people who refused to leave. Refusal to leave can mean three months in prison and a ?2,500 fine.

The zone, bounded by Regent Street, Oxford Street, Charing Cross Road, Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus, has been introduced for six months.

Audrey Lewis, Westminster council's cabinet member for community protection, said: "We want to ensure that those who want a night out in the West End can have one without fear of trouble from a mindless minority."