POLICE have secured a closure order on a house in Wickford following complaints about persistent anti-social behaviour.

It means no-one can live at the house in Elm Road for three months. Anyone caught trying to enter the property within that time could face jail for breaching the conditions.

A statement from Essex Police says: "We took the action after receiving complaints about drug dealing and anti-social behaviour, which had left people feeling frightened and concerned."

Sergeant Jane Childs, of the Wickford Town Centre Team, added: "We have received numerous concerns about this particular address and are continuing to investigate these incidents.

"We will not tolerate drug dealing or intimidating anti-social behaviour and hope the closure order will provide some respite for residents living nearby."

Basildon Magistrates' Court granted the closure order today (Thursday, 18 February).

Anyone with concerns about crime and anti-social behaviour is asked to contact police online Crimestoppers anonymously online or by calling 0800 555 111.