POLICE are stepping up patrols in Chipping Sodbury High Street after an outbreak of late-night criminal damage.

Officers will be out in force in the town on Friday and Saturday following a recent rise in vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

Sgt Adrian Fallows, from Chipping Sodbury Police Station, said: "Last weekend we had four or five reports of criminal damage including some of the signs to the town were bent and floral displays were damaged.

"We are reviewing the CCTV and anyone who is identified or found to be carrying out acts of criminal damage or acting anti-socially can expect to be arrested or receive a fixed penalty notice.

"This is mindless vandalism and it will not be tolerated."

The Gazette reported how Chipping Sodbury was plagued with anti-social behaviour on Friday and Saturday nights during 2008. In September last year, a huge rise in smashed shopfront windows, damage to residents’ cars and loud, abusive language caused traders and homeowners to meet with local police and pub landlords to discuss the problems.

There have since been fewer incidents but it is feared the summer evenings may prompt revellers to stay out longer and drink more alcohol.

Added Sgt Fallows: "People must take responsibility for themselves when walking home and they must take consideration for their neighbours.

"If you are going to go out and have a few drinks act responsibly.

"We are increasing patrols and if other revellers see people acting in an anti-social manner please call us."

Hotelier Mark Lloyd, who owns Rounceval House Hotel, said the new taxi rank outside the pubs on Broad Street had made a difference.

He said: "I think the taxi rank has improved things. The next route which needs exploring is making more use of CCTV cameras."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0845 456 700 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.