POLICE officers are showing an increased profile in Grays as they enforce a dispersal order to prevent anti-social behaviour.

Responding to concerns raised by residents, police say high-visibility patrols will continue this week.

The dispersal order, first issued at the weekend, gives officers the power to direct people suspected of acting anti-socially to leave the area.

It does not prevent residents or visitors being in the area, but allows officers to disperse anyone behaving antisocially and keep members of the public visiting the area safe.

The order covers an area including Grays train station, Grays beach and south of the railway line between the two locations, and the area of Grays Town Park.

It will remain in place from 1.31pm today (Monday, 7 August), until 1.31pm on Wednesday, 9 August.

Inspector Daniel Selby said: "We want to avoid any disruption to the lives of people living in Grays or any disorder. 

"Anti-social behaviour is not low-level offending, and we are all too aware of the impact this offence will have on businesses and residents during the summer months. 

"I can assure them there will continue to be an appropriate and visible policing presence in the area.

"We have seen a really positive response and engagement with our officers so far and I would like to thank the community in Grays for their help and understanding."