The war on anti-social behaviour comes to Brighton today with the launch of training sessions for front-line staff.

Representatives from police, councils, courts and others will be attending a Home Office anti-social behaviour "academy" at the Hilton Metropole Hotel.

It aims to improve their response by providing information and support to deal with anti-social behaviour. At the same time, the Home Office is providing a new action line on 0870 2202000, which gives advice and support for those tackling anti-social behaviour.

Brighton and Hove is one of the leading cities in tackling begging and hooliganism.

The city's Patcham estate is the first in England and Wales to be designated yob-free.

Extra police are dispersing groups of youths and officers have new powers of arrest.

Louise Casey, National Director of the Anti-Social Behaviour Unit, said: "Across the South-East, local authorities and the police are working with local people to make the region safer.

"In some areas the anti-social behaviour of a minority of people is a problem and it can ruin neighbourhoods and destroy people's quality of life."

The academy in Brighton is one of ten taking place across the country.

Ken Bodfish, leader of Brighton and Hove City Council, said: "The scourge of anti-social behaviour has been recognised at the highest level. Abandoned cars, beggars, difficult neighbours, noise and vandalism can make city living intolerable for some residents.

"The police, council and agency partnership in Brighton and Hove are working to create imaginative solutions to stamp out this nuisance."