A dispersal order has been put in place in the centre of Leigh following concerns about anti-social behaviour in the area – including objects being thrown at police cars and police officers.

The 48-hour order, which was put in place at 4.30pm today will run through until the same time Thursday.

It will be specifically focused around the Broadway and Leigh Library Gardens areas of the town, where there has been a recent spike in anti-social behaviour.

Incidents include members of the public being verbally abused, along with police officers and officials from the council.

In one incident, objects were thrown at police officers and police cars.

The Essex Police press office did not reveal what these objects were – or when this incident actually happened.

The aim of the order is to prevent groups of young people intent on causing anti-social behaviour from being able to do so in this area, before this escalates to the need for arrests to be made.

The details of anyone breaking this order will be passed to the Youth Offending Service.

Resident Steven Banford, 45, of Victoria Road, Leigh, is pleased action is being taken.

He said: “I heard about some problems around the library area before the New Year.

“I don’t know if it is the same youngsters involved.

“I’m glad the police are acting proactively.

“It’s best not to let these sort of things get out of hand and at least this 48-hour plan is a good move.

“Hopefully it’ll do enough to stop a problem before it properly starts.”

Mum-of-one Sandra Francis, 33, of Pall Mall, Leigh, was concerned too.

She said: “I spoke with a few friends who had heard about some incidents near the library gardens.

“I suppose it’s just bored teenagers who are responsible.

“Hopefully this plan and some extra police presence may do enough to clear this up.”

Anyone with any information about anti-social behaviour in the area should call police on 101.