Police called to 'disperse crowd' after vigil to Harley Lea

Officers were in the area of Gartons Lane and Jubits Lane at around 7pm on Sunday, October 9, following reports of a large gathering of people after the vigil.

A number of motorbikes were seen being driven dangerously in the area and items were also thrown at police vehicles.

A police officer suffered an injury to his hand.

Floral tributes left to Harley Lea in Blackbrook near the scene of last week's crash (Image: St Helens Star)

Further patrols and police dogs attended the area to disperse the crowd.

Teenager Harley Lea died in a crash in Blackbrook which involved a car and two motorbikes.

Harley, with his mum Caz (Image: .)

A 24-year-old man has been charged with offences, including murder and causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving, in connection with the crash.

READ > Cyclist, 15, in hospital with head injury after collision

In addition, a dispersal zone was authorised to give additional powers to officers, which remains in place tonight, Monday.

A bus leaving the leaving area on Sunday was also stopped by officers and police say "a number of males" were spoken to, had their details checked and were returned home.

Balloon tributes to Harley left near the crash scene (Image: St Helens Star)

Local Policing Chief Inspector Paul Holden said: “We understand that emotions are currently running high in the St Helens area but we would appeal for people to remain calm and respect the feelings of the family by not engaging in anti-social behaviour and causing disruption in the local community.”

• Anyone with information about the incident, which could assist with police inquiries, is asked to DM @MerPolCC or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting log 287 of October 9.