War has been declared on troublesome neighbours and others guilty of antisocial behaviour.

Police and councils now have a host of powers to control those who make other people's lives a misery.

Acceptable behaviour contracts appear to have worked well in Oxfordshire. Of the 62 issued to troublemakers, 90 per cent have been observed.

But the stronger Antisocial Behaviour Orders have not been so effective, mainly because they are costly and cumbersome to implement.

Now the Government has brought in legislation which should make the system cheaper and more efficient.

The Antisocial Behaviour Act covers a range of misdemeanours, including noise nuisance, truancy and graffiti.

We hope the authorities will make full use of these stronger powers, and send a strong message to those who create havoc in our communities.

All law-abiding people have a right to live in peace and comfort.