Bradford's 50 worst yobs are set to be named in a "League of Shame".

Police chiefs will be handed sweeping new powers by the Home Office to crack down on hooligans who blight the lives of law-abiding citizens.

Officers will be told to target - and name - the thugs who persistently indulge in anti-social behaviour.

The scheme aims to tackle bad behaviour such as city centre disorder, street drinking, vandalism, graffiti and fly-tipping.

Home Secretary David Blunkett has announced police in the 50 areas with the worst anti-social behaviour problems will get fresh powers - and they will focus on the 50 worst yobs in each area.

The areas will be named in the autumn, but a Home Office source said: "It is pretty likely Bradford will receive new powers."

The "Together" scheme will be run by the police, councils and local community groups.

One Bradford businessman whose premises have been persistently attacked by vandals said tougher tactics were required.

John Womack, who runs Otter Water Sports in Dudley Hill, said: "The yobs doing this don't care. These people have no shame.

"I doubt it will make any difference. I have lived in Bradford all my life but things have never been this bad. All down Wakefield Road kids are throwing stones through windows and vandalising things - they have no respect and it's sickening."

People living in Undercliffe are also being plagued by groups of youths, gathering on streets, acting in an anti-social way and damaging property.

Ward councillor Mukhtar Ali (Bowling and Barkerend, Lib Dem) said: "The League of Shame sounds fine but it won't work alone. It is crucial that it is backed up by a full application of law.

Ann Cryer, Labour MP for Keighley, said: "It is important to send the message out that anti-social behaviour is unacceptable."