PCSO Janet Gould with the confiscated drinkUNDERAGE drinking, drug offences, threatening behaviour and a sexual assault have resulted in a series of arrests on an estate targeted by gangs of youths.

Police in Melksham launched a crackdown on increasing levels of anti-social behaviour in Bowerhill, resulting in four arrests, but promised more is to come.

Up to 12 officers, including PCSOs and special constables, carried out patrols of the estate from 4pm to midnight on Thursday, in response to residents' complaints about intimidating gangs of youths plaguing the area.

A total of 19 stop checks were carried out.

Two men in their 20s sat in a car on Brabazon Way were cautioned for possessing cannabis, while a 16-year-old boy was found with 18 cans of lager stashed in a rucksack.

While officers were patrolling the estate a 19-year-old girl was indecently assaulted close to the Pilot pub. A man has been arrested and bailed in connection with the assault.

Police were called to the estate again on Friday evening following reports of a large gang causing trouble in Falcon Way and Sunderland Close.

Three people were arrested on public order offences.

Inspector Gary Porter said it was important to get the message across that anti social behaviour would not be tolerated.

"It is not a one off. We will go back again," he said.

"We will take whatever measures are available from education to court action as is applicable to each case.

"I would encourage the residents of Bowerhill to keep reporting what is happening. Without the intelligence we cannot do our job as effectively.

"They should name names and put their heads above the parapet and be accountable."

Insp Porter said he would be liaising with Trading Standards after one of the teenagers cautioned admitted buying the booze illegally from a store.

He said although increased patrols were only a short-term solution to the problem, they sent a clear message to those at the root of the problem.

Insp Porter promised to work closely with residents groups and town and district councils to find a long-term answer.