Police will be able to use new powers to disperse groups gathering in Queen's Gardens, Croydon.

The order started last Wednesday and will initially run for six months. It will give police the power to break up groups of two or more people who hang around the gardens drinking and causing antisocial behaviour.

Officers will work closely with the council, YMCA, drug and alcohol action teams and the NHS walk-in centre in Croydon High Street to help people find accommodation and rehabilitation.