A DISPERSAL order was put in place in Horsforth last night to tackle firework-related anti-social behaviour in the area.

Officers from the Leeds North West Neighbourhood Policing Team made use of the power after being called to reports of a large group letting off fireworks in various public places and committing anti-social behaviour.

Following attempts to engage with the group, a dispersal order was implemented at 10.30pm which saw those involved dispersed from the area.

The order, made under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, allows officers to disperse and remove any person suspected of contributing or likely to contribute to anti-social behaviour, and instruct the surrender of any relevant property. Anyone under the age of 16 can be removed to their home or place of safety.

The order was rescinded at 11:58pm.

Inspector Carl Robinson, who heads the Leeds North West Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Anti-social behaviour such as this has a negative impact on the lives of local residents and can’t be tolerated. We moved swiftly to bring this situation to a safe conclusion using dispersal powers and will continue to take appropriate action wherever we see similar incidents.”