AGGRESSIVE youths coughed over supermarket shoppers and told them they would give them the coronavirus.

Police were forced to use section 35 dispersal powers to move the group away from Morrisons in Verwood on Monday, March 23.

Now police in Dorset have urged parents to keep their children at home to prevent further incidents.

Speaking of the incident in Verwood, a spokesman for East Dorset Police said: “[We are] disappointed with a small number of youths causing issues in the Verwood area over the past few nights.

“We have taken reports of groups of youths coughing at staff and shoppers at Morrisons store and telling people they will give them the coronavirus.

“We are appalled at this very immature behaviour and will be dealing robustly with anyone acting in this way. Section 35 dispersal powers were used on the youths ordering them to leave the area. "Parents, please ensure you know where your children are.”

In a message sent to all schools, a spokesman for Dorset Police said: "Do you know were your children are? Help the police protect them from risk and harm.Following government advice it has never been more vital to know where your children are.

"By gathering in groups people are putting at risk those most vulnerable in our communities.

“During patrols if officers come across groups we will be giving advice and requesting they disperse to their own homes.”