POLICE patrols in Portishead will be stepped up in Slade Road and Downside following an increase in antisocial behaviour.

A recent PACT meeting heard how people living near to an alleyway linking the two roads had been subject to an increase in noise and vandalism, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. As a result, Portishead police have agreed to make tackling the problems in this area a priority.

Reported incidents in the past year include damage to fencing, graffiti on homes and a hedge being set on fire.

The police have vowed to monitor the area and are expected to deal robustly with offenders.