A TASK force has been created to stop vagrants intimidating and frightening residents and commuters using a Colchester town centre roundabout.

In recent months, St Botolph’s Circus roundabout has become a notorious hotspot for drinking and drug-taking.

It is believed many of those spending their days there have been turfed out from St Botolph’s Priory, which has undergone a transformation this year.

Now Essex Police, Colchester Council and NHS North East Essex have joined forces to create a task force which will focus on the trouble-spot.

* For more, see Friday's Gazette