A dispersal order was in place in Southend overnight following reports of anti-social behaviour.

The order was authorised between 8pm yesterday (Monday, September 13) until 2am today (Tuesday, September 14).

It followed reports of a large group of young people behaving anti-socially in and around Warrior Square Skate Park.

A dispersal order does not prevent residents or visitors being in the area, but allows officers to disperse anyone behaving anti-socially to keep local communities safe.

Breaching any direction given under the order is a criminal offence and, if you do, you could be arrested.

The dispersal order covered the area south of Queensway, including Victoria Shopping Centre, Warrior Square, Southend Central and The Royals Shopping Centre.

Anyone who experiences antisocial behaviour should please report it to us on 101 or ring 999 in an emergency.