POLICE have issued a Thurrock-wide dispersal order over the weekend.

Inspector Daniel Selby said: "We know how strongly our communities feel about anti-social behaviour which is why we're exercising these powers this weekend.

"I want to stress these powers are not about people having fun over the Halloween period, our neighbourhood officers enjoy engaging with members of the community during events.

"However, this order is designed to protect the public and prevent the disorder and crime a small minority can be responsible for over this period and means we can deal with issues that arise, quickly and swiftly as the public would expect."

A dispersal order is in place across Thurrock from 12pm today (Friday 31 October) to help officers prevent anti-social behaviour across the district.

Police will have the power to disperse groups where they are concerned the public may be harassed, alarmed or distressed, or if they think crime will occur. The order remains in place until 10am on Sunday, 2 November.

The order covers the whole district of Thurrock.