The Corporation of Hamilton yesterday announced a crackdown on beggars who harass members of the public.

Corporation secretary Roger Sherratt encouraged people to report bothersome beggars to the Police -- who are prepared to prosecute.

"There are about half a dozen of these men who are absolutely harassing people, particularly women,'' said Mr. Sherratt.

"Often the women won't come forward, but we are receiving an increasing number of complaints.'' Mr. Sherratt said beggars were walking into stores and harassing people -- which was a concern not only for customers but also for shopkeepers.

"They open the taxi passenger doors and demand money for providing a service, they stand outside the stores begging each person who walks by for money -- they've become altogether very aggressive.

"And we have a strong indication that the money is being used to buy drugs.

Although the community tends to be sympathetic to men down on their luck, in most instances they're receiving social assistance.'' Mr. Sherratt said the Corporation had asked people not to beg, warning them them the Police were preparing to take action and prosecute.

"We remain sympathetic, but the situation is getting out of hand,'' he added.