A dispersal order was issued for an area of Biddulph over the weekend as Staffordshire Police looked to crackdown on anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the area.

The order, granted under section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, gives officers the power to disperse anyone for the purpose of or reducing the likelihood of members of the public in the locality being harassed, alarmed, distressed or the occurrence of crime and disorder.

Failing to comply with an order is a criminal offence and police can return anyone under the age of 16 to their home address.

As part of the powers, officers can issue the notices for a period of up to 48 hours and anyone found breaching a notice is liable to be arrested and face further action.

Police say there have been reports of ASB in the area recently, with youths reportedly harassing staff at local stores and members of the public.

The dispersal order came into force from 5pm on Friday (28 October) and was in effect until 5pm on Sunday (30 October).

The order was granted for officers and PCSOs to use on the Biddulph Valley Way, as well as several areas of Stoke North including Redhills Road, Birches Head Road, Leek Road and Leek New Road.

Inspector Eloise Bowen, of Stoke North Local Policing Team, said: "Following an increase in calls from concerned residents, officers will be patrolling the area over the coming days to tackle any instances of crime or anti-social behaviour.

"We understand the impact this behaviour can have on people living in the area, and are continuing to work with partner agencies to tackle issues reported by our communities and encourage parents and guardians to ensure they know where their children are, what they are up to, and who they are with."

Anyone with any concerns can contact Staffordshire Police by reporting online, sending a direct message on Facebook or Twitter or calling 101.