A dispersal order is now in force which gives police powers to order trouble-makers to leave or face arrestPolice in Bolton town centre(Image: Phil Taylor)

Police were tonight descending on Bolton town centre following reports of trouble involving up to 60 people.

Cops, including riot-trained Tactical Aid Unit officers, and paramedics were photographed massing close to McDonalds fast food restaurant on Knowsley Street in the town centre.

Tonight, (Saturday) Greater Manchester Police imposed a so-called dispersal order on an area of the town which gives officers powers to order people suspected of being involved in disorder to leave the area or face arrest. The ‘section 34’ order will be in place until 2am.

Pictures from the scene showed a number of police vehicles as well as an ambulance.

Police in Bolton town centre(Image: Phil Taylor)

The action taken by GMP follows what it describes as ‘a number of reports of anti-social behaviour and criminality involving a group of up to 60 individuals in and around the Market Place area’.

The GP statement continued: “The order, which is in place until approximately 2am tomorrow (Sunday 16 November), will allow us to tackle these issues with an emphasis on the safety of the wider public in this area.”

Inspector Nick White, from GMP’s Bolton division, said: “The reported behaviour of those involved, putting members of the public at risk, will not be tolerated.

A map of a dispersal order in place for Bolton town centre(Image: GMP)

“Bolton should be a safe place for all those who wish to visit to make use of facilities within the town centre. You can expect to see an increased visible presence, and anyone with concerns should speak to officers on the ground.”

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