POLICE are clamping down on anti-social behaviour on an Ellesmere Port estate after a large gang of youths set off fireworks and caused criminal damage.

Shortly before 7pm yesterday (October 8) officers were called to reports of a disturbance around the Bunbury Green and Warwick Court area of the Stanney estate.

Police discovered a large group of young people who were setting off fireworks and causing damage close to homes.

Officers are currently examining CCTV footage to establish the identities of those involved.

A dispersal order has been issued in response to the trouble, making it an offence for anyone to return to a specific area for up to 48 hours.

Officers and PCSOs will be using the dispersal order powers to prevent disorder in the area over the weekend.

They will be used alongside the Covid-19 public health regulations currently in place, which prevent people from gathering in groups of more than six people.

Chief Inspector Catherine Prichard, of Ellesmere Port Local Policing Unit, said: "This type of behaviour is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.

"Those involved in this kind of activity can create fear in our community and I have already visited the residents myself to assure them that we are committed to doing all that we can to tackle such behaviour.

"From tonight we will have additional officers out on patrols to help enforce the dispersal order and provide reassurance to local residents, we’ll new force drone on hand to collect any evidence if required.

Chester and District Standard:

The area covered by the dispersal order.

"In addition, our officers are examining CCTV footage and body-warn camera and action will be taken against anyone who was involved in offences in the Bunbury Green area.

"It’s also important to remember that is not just about the anti-social behaviour, we are currently in the midst of a national pandemic and cases of Covid-19 are increasing every day.

"It’s essential that everyone adheres to the regulations which are currently in place, not only to protect yourself but also to protect your family and friends."

Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane said: "Anti-social behaviour can have an absolutely devastating impact on our communities, and I hope that the work being undertaken by Chief Inspector Catherine Prichard and her team will provide reassurance to local residents.

"In my role as Police and Crime Commissioner, it is also one of my key priorities that anti-social behaviour is tackled and that local residents feel safe in their communities. I will continue to work with the Chief Constable to ensure these key issues for our communities are addressed."

No arrests have taken place so far in relation to the disturbance and anyone with any information in relation to the incidents in Bunbury Green is asked to call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 823319, or give the details via cheshire.police.uk/ro/report.

Information can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.