Matthew Hill became the first person in the resort to be placed on an anti-social behaviour order since the launch of Operation Anchor – the police and council's begging crackdown.

And officers today warned those not taking up the support offered to them would also be prosecuted.

Hill, 26, of Caunce Street, Blackpool, pleaded guilty to begging and was put on a three-year Asbo which prohibits him from "begging or approaching any person for that purpose" within the resort.

Stuart Martin, prosecuting, told Blackpool magistrates how Hill was seen by PC Mark Mulholland on November 12, wrapped in a blanket outside Under Bar, begging with a small white pot at his feet.

Mr Martin added: "Hill had had many warnings from PC Mulholland for begging. He is a persistent beggar and there have been a number of complaints from town centre stores about him. He has seven previous convictions for begging."

John McLaren, defending, said his client had fought a long-standing battle with drugs and a disability.

Hill was on income support and on occasions when his money ran out he went out begging. Hill did not oppose being put on the Asbo.

After the case, PC Mulholland, beat manager for Blackpool town centre, said: "We launched Operation Anchor to target people who beg, drink to excess or behave in an anti-social way in the town centre."

The initiative offers people support with drink and drugs problems, plus help in getting accommodation and looking for work.

PC Mulholland added: "People who do not take the support offered and continue to beg or behave in an anti-social manner will have stringent action taken against them. This is a prime example of what we intend to do."

At the launch of the operation, The Gazette accompanied officers around Talbot Road bus station, Dickson Road and Topping Street.

Police and social workers were tasked with talking to people loitering in known hotspots who were drunk, begging, drinking or acting in any other anti-social manner.

At the time, police said people would first be offered help but if they refused to comply they would be dealt with by the full force of the law.

Together with the Asbo, Hill was fined £60 and ordered to pay a £15 victims' surcharge.