A dispersal order, which gives police the power to exclude people from an area, was in force across Burnley last night (April 2).

The order was in force around the town centre and bus station between 7pm and midnight.

This follows reports of a pre-arranged fight due to take place between teenagers.

A large group of teenagers was subsequently found to be present in the area shortly before that time.

This power has been authorised to prevent members of the public in the locality from experiencing harassment, alarm or distress, or crime & disorder occurring in the area.

Under the order, officers are given the power to exclude people from the area. Failure to follow the order could result in an arrest.

A police spokesperson said: “The authority provides officers with the power to exclude people from the area, direct that they leave the area via a particular route and not return within a specified time. Failure to follow directions given may result in arrest.

“Parents/guardians – do you know where your children are? If you believe they are in Burnley town centre, please come and collect them.

Officers have been diverted to the area to enforce this authority.”