Police granted sudden new powers in town centre TODAY as dispersal order issued

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

A dispersal order has been imposed in Bolton centre as police brace themselves for possible anti-social behaviour as schools break-up for the summer.

The order, which gives officers extra powers to move people on, runs until midnight tonight (Friday). Police said it was put in place ahead of a 'likely increase in gatherings following the end of the school year'.

Police patrols have also been stepped up. Measures available under the order would 'only be utilised where necessary', said police. READ MORE: Man who walked into Tesco with serious injuries dies following alleged attack In a statement, GMP Bolton said "A dispersal order has been authorised to ensure that all visitors to the town centre get to enjoy the experience without experiencing anti-social behaviour or disorder.

Neighbourhood officers and partner agencies will be deployed to the town Centre to engage with visitors. Powers afforded to officers under this order will only be utilised where necessary. "The order has been authorised in order to avoid large groups gathering and engaging in anti-social behaviour.