A DISPERSAL order has been put in place due to concerns over groups of yobs congregating in Castle Park preparing to fight.

Essex Police have authorised the move in response to antisocial behaviour in the town centre.

Earlier today police says groups of people were congregating around the Castle Park area who may have been preparing for a fight, before dispersing to other areas.

The dispersal order has been put in place to prevent crime and disorder and to stop people living in the area being harassed, alarmed or distressed.

It gives police extra powers to move people away from the area.

They can be arrested if they don't comply or return to the area covered by the zone in a certain time period.

The order is in place from 5pm on Wednesday until 5pm on Friday.

The area covered is Colchester town centre and the adjacent open areas bounded by Lexden Road, Southway, Magdalen Street, Brook Street, East Street, Ipswich Road, Cowdray Avenue, Colne Bank Avenue and Cymbeline Way.

Gazette: A map of the dispersal zoneA map of the dispersal zone

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Inspector Chris Coyles said: “These orders are here to keep everyone safe, and to ensure that the local community can continue their daily lives without fear of anti-social behaviour or disorder.

"My officers will have extra powers until 5pm on Friday to prevent any disturbances taking place.

"We're here to keep you safe, so don't be alarmed if you see a larger police presence in the next few days.

“If you have any concerns about antisocial behaviour in your local area, you can submit a report through our website or call us on 101. Always call 999 in an emergency.”