In a bid to thwart potential anti-social behaviour, Police have issued a dispersal order covering Lakeside shopping centre and surrounding public spaces in Thurrock.

The order started at 12 noon on Friday 22 May and runs until 12 noon on Sunday 24 May.

It gives police officers the power to order individuals committing anti-social behaviour (ASB) - or appear likely to commit it - to leave the area.

Local policing Inspector Daniel Selby said: "The order means we can quickly deal with anyone who's not behaving and large groups can be loud and disruptive. We won't allow a minority to spoil the shopping experience for everyone else."

Ahead of issuing the order, Inp Selby said: "Lakeside always gets busy over a Bank Holiday weekend and we're expecting this weekend to be really warm.

"We have plans in place to make sure if you're visiting you'll be safe and have a great time.

"As this also marks the start of half term, we know that sometimes this can lead to large groups of young people coming to Lakeside.

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"And while most people just come to enjoy everything the centre has to offer, this can sometimes lead to anti-social behaviour.

"I'll be clear though – if you come here planning to commit crime, disorder, or anti-social behaviour we will deal with you.

"Failure to comply with a Dispersal Order is an arrestable offence."