POWERS to disperse drunken New Year's Eve party-goers have been hailed as a big success by the town's police.

The powers, under Section 27 of the Violent Crime Reduction Act, allow officers to disperse troublemakers from the town centre for up to 48 hours.

Anyone returning within a specified time faces arrest.

Acting Inspector Phil Godfrey said: "We had extra officers drafted in for New Year's Eve because Exmouth is becoming a very popular destination, especially with everyone in fancy dress.

"Section 27 dispersal orders, which came in on Wednesday, December 17, worked a treat.

"It was used sparingly so just 15 people were removed from the area and seven on New Year's Eve. Two people were arrested for failing to comply with the dispersal order.

"It has been a very effective tool, allowing us to nip things in the bud.

"It also certainly paid off having extra officers and by and large the evening of new year went well. Most people enjoyed themselves and there was no trouble."

He added: "There was also a strong presence at the railway station but I didn't specifically ask officers to monitor trains coming in and out.

"We go there to show there is a police presence, but I didn't allocate officers there."

Acting Inspector Godfrey said the dispersal powers had been supported by traders at a recent meeting of the Licensed Victuallers' Association in the town.

"I did a presentation on the dispersal powers and explained how they could be used and all of them are in support.

"It ties in with existing schemes like Pubwatch, being linked in with CCTV. Section 27 is the icing on the cake."

The area covered by the order included all roads and areas inside The Esplanade, Alexandra Terrace, Morton Road, Victoria Road, Langerwehe Way, The Royal Avenue, Marine Way, cutting across the A376, New North Road, North Street, Windsor Square, Albion Street, Montpellier Road, Bicton Street, Rolle Road, Carlton Hill and Exhibition Playing Fields.