A dispersal order has been put in place in Blackburn.

Police issued the order early on Monday morning after officers were forced to respond to a series of incidents around Addison Street in the town.

Several vehicles have been damaged as well as a number of police cars.

The order will be in place for the next 24 hours and police will be stepping-up patrols in the area.

The dispersal order covers the area between Addison Street and St Barnabas Street/Foxhouse Street and Belle Vue Street.

A spokesperson for the police said: "Police have responded to a series of incidents in the area around Addison Street, Blackburn.

"The incidents have included several vehicles being damaged, including police vehicles.

"As a result of these incidents a dispersal order has been authorised under Section 34 of the Anti Social Behaviour, Crime and Police Act 2014.

"This dispersal order is to supplement the ongoing Covid restrictions and will allow police to disperse any persons that are or are likely to act in an anti-social manner in the area.

"The dispersal order will be in place for 24 hours.

"Please continue to adhere to current Covid regulations which allow for essential travel only.

"There will be a visible police presence in the area to provide reassurance to the public."

Anyone with any information about the incidents should call 101 quoting log 1543 of March 21.