FOLLOWING “numerous” incidents in the city centre, involving a group of 15 to 20 young people "congregating in retail areas, being abusive to members of the public and displaying violent behaviour", officers in Salisbury have issued a dispersal order for 48 hours.

The Section 35 Dispersal Order enables officers to ask anyone over the age of 10 to leave an area and not return for a set period of time.

The order is set to end tomorrow tonight.

Police can return anyone under the age of 16 to their home address. Failing to comply with the order is a criminal offence that could result in arrest.

PS Steve Jolly said: “Section 35 Dispersal powers are essential in combatting anti-social behaviour within our city but I would like to stress that our officers will only use these where absolutely necessary. I would like to appeal to parents and guardians. Do you know where your children are tonight? Do you know what they are up to? Do you know who they are with? Please help us in keeping our communities and your children safe.”

The dispersal order covers the city centre, defined by the Churchill Way Ring Road system.