POLICE have imposed a dispersal zone in areas of Blackbrook and Laffak after cases of anti-social behaviour.

Residents have reported various incidents relating to youths in the area causing disorder.

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In a statement today, Wednesday, police said: "This afternoon a dispersal order has been issued and will be in place over the coming 48 hours after a rise in reports of anti-social behaviour.

"You will see additional officers patrolling in the area. If you are reading this post and you suspect your children will be at this location, please deter them against this."

Officers said that Chain Lane shopping precinct has been plagued by reports of anti-social behaviour which has been "causing distress to the public and shop workers alike".

St Helens Star: A map of the area covered by the dispersal orderA map of the area covered by the dispersal order

This gives police extra powers to direct people they suspect are causing crime, nuisance or anti-social behaviour to leave the designated area.

The order will run from 3pm on Wednesday, March 30 through until Friday, April 1 at 2.59pm.

The dispersal zone will cover the area of Islands Brow, The Burgies, Hinckley Road, Bosworth Road, Parbold Avenue, Chain Lane, Erskine Close, Renfrew Avenue, Helston Avenue, Laffak Road and Chain Lane Park and woodland.