Dispersal order in place over city centre trouble

Police say the weekend-long order is in place to address a recent increase in anti-social behaviour

A dispersal order is being put in place in a city centre to try to tackle a recent rise in anti-social behaviour.

It follows reports of groups of youths gathering in Lichfield and being abusive and intimidating towards people and businesses, as well as dangerous and illegal use of e-bikes and e-scooters, Staffordshire Police has said.

The order, in place from 15:00 BST on Friday until 15:00 BST on Sunday, gives officers the power to remove people causing trouble.

An arrest had already been made in connection with the reports of city centre issues, the force stated.

"We don't underestimate the impact that persistent anti-social behaviour can have on the people living, working and visiting Lichfield," said Insp. Melissa Byrne.

The officer has urged parents and guardians to make sure that young people know the order will be in place, as well as explaining to them the consequences of persistent anti-social behaviour.

It is a criminal offence to fail to comply with a dispersal order, and police can take anyone under 16 back to their home address.

The order is in place for 48 hours, but can be extended.

"Officers don't take this type of behaviour lightly," said Insp Byrne, adding they "would keep working proactively to tackle the issues affecting local people and businesses the most in Lichfield".