TWO dispersal orders have been put in place after reports of antisocial behaviour by large groups in Stockton and Thornaby.

Cleveland Police made the orders, which started at 4pm today and will run for 48 hours.

They cover Stockton town centre and the Mandale and Victoria ward in Thornaby.

Cleveland Police says it made them after reports of antisocial behaviour and criminal damage.

The order gives the police the power to disperse large groups of youths from the area for a period of 48 hours.

Anyone who does not comply or returns to the area within 48 hours can be arrested.

In the Mandale and Victoria ward of Thornaby, there were more than 50 reports of antisocial behaviour in February, police say.

The Northern Echo:

The dispersal order is the area including and within the boundaries of the A66, Thornaby Road, Laburnum Avenue, Thorntree Road, Lanehouse Road and Acklam Road.

In Stockton town centre, there have been numerous reports of antisocial behaviour incidents this year, including groups of children and young adults using threatening language and throwing objects at buildings and vehicles.

The dispersal order gives police the power to disperse any youths suspected of becoming involved in such activity before any offences are committed.

The order covers the area including and within the boundaries of Riverside Road, Maritime Road, Wilson Street, Victoria Street, Prince Regent Street and Bridge Street.

It also incorporates Bright Street, Russell Street and Dovecot Street.

The Northern Echo:

Anyone with information about antisocial behaviour can report it to Cleveland Police on the non-emergency number 101 or via our online reporting services.