A DISPERSAL order to tackle troublesome youths has been extended to deal with the annual Bonfire night problems that bring misery to many residents.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has joined forces with Cleveland Police to secure the order for the Closes Estate in Redcar.

The original order came into force in July, giving police and community protection officers the power to disperse gangs suspected of being up to no good.

But with the order set to expire last Sunday, the authorities secured an extension until 11.59pm on November 20.

The new order ensures the historically problematic "Mischief Night" and the period around Bonfire Night is covered.

Councillor Steve Goldswain, the council's cabinet member for community protection, said: "A major reason for introducing this order in the first place was to combat nuisance and anti-social behaviour.

"We know that this kind of behaviour can traditionally increase around Mischief Night and Bonfire Night, so it is only right that the dispersal order remains in place during this time.

"It gives residents more peace of mind and continues to send the message to a small criminal minority that their actions will not be tolerated."

The order means officers have the authority to disperse groups of two or more people, with any members of such gangs who return to the area within 24 hours facing arrest and prosecution.

It came into force following concerns aired by local residents about rising cases of arson and criminal damage on the estate.

Chief Inspector Helen Barker, of Cleveland Police, said: "The dispersal order has been extended to incorporate the traditional rise in anti-social behaviour around this time of year when the dark nights set in. It has proved to be extremely successful so far in reducing deliberate fires and anti-social behaviour."

The order covers the area bordered by Mersey Road from its junction with Roseberry Road along to Low Farm Drive; along Low Farm Drive to the junction with Rushpool Close; from this junction across to West Dyke Road and the junction with Edenhall Grove; along West Dyke Road to the junction with Troutbeck Road; along Troutbeck Road to the junction with Mersey Road, back to the junction of Mersey Road and Roseberry Road; and all the areas and roads within this boundary.