The county's ongoing problem with anti-social behaviour in town centres is to be tackled by Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), who are to be given new powers.

Although the officers don't have the authority to make arrests, they will be given the power to stop and search young people for alcohol and tobacco.

If they find such goods they will be able to confiscate them.

It is hoped these powers will reduce the level of anti-social behaviour experienced in Pembrokeshire's towns and villages.

The officers work with the police force and the county's housing and anti-social behaviour officers.

PCSO Idwal David said: "We have dedicated areas across Pembrokeshire that we will be covering as of November this year.

"There will be lots more teams to spread out once we have recruited more officers.

"We may not have the power to arrest but if we come across situations that become serious we would then radio police officers.

"The new stop and search powers should combat anti-social behaviour."

The PCSOs will be able to issue fixed penalty notices for cycling on a footway, dog fouling, litter, offences under dog control orders, and they can hand out penalties to anyone caught throwing fireworks.

They will also be able to seize vehicles used to cause alarm and will have the power to seize drugs and request names and addresses from anyone found in possession of drugs.