Dispersal order covers the town of Essex for Halloween

A dispersal order is enforced in one city during the Halloween period to prevent antisocial and disruptive behavior.

Essex Police said the “proactive” order in Witham would apply from October 31 to November 2.

It covers the entire city, including Newlands Street, Powers Hall End and Rickstones Road, and gives officers more powers to disperse groups they believe could cause trouble.

Inspector Phil Jackson said: “We will respond vigorously to reports of disorder during this period.”

The order has been described as a “preventative measure” after police said they were made aware of reports of anti-social behavior in the city.

Insp Jackson said it would allow “the law-abiding majority of the public” to enjoy Halloween and Guy Fawkes nights.

“We will have officers across the city, and this order gives them the power to disperse groups that are behaving anti-social or disorderly in the city,” he added.

“Our officers will also visit local shops and businesses to ensure items commonly used in disorder, such as fireworks and eggs, are sold responsibly.”

The dispersal order starts at 12:00 GMT on Thursday and ends at 6:00 am on November 2.