A Dispersal Order has been issued for Darlington town centre from Thursday night (October 30) until Friday night. The anti-yob order has been put in place after police say they were told of “potential disorder in the town centre”. This means that anyone in the area whom the authorities suspect is causing trouble will be banned from returning. Those who choose to ignore it may also face arrest as the force warns they will “deal with offenders robustly”. 

The 24-hour order will be accompanied by an increased police presence on the streets as parents are urged to keep an eye on their children during the Halloween period. Inspector David Littlefair, from Darlington Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “We have received reports of potential disorder in the town centre on Thursday night, which is why we have implemented a 24-hour dispersal order.

“Darlington town centre should be a place for everyone to enjoy, not spoiled by a small number of individuals causing antisocial behaviour.

“I’d like to remind parents that the safeguarding of their children is their responsibility, as well as that of the police and other authorities.

“Make sure you know where your child is and what they are doing, as it may prevent a knock to your door from the police.

“Antisocial behaviour makes the lives of those living and working in the area a misery, and we will deal with offenders robustly.

“Dispersal orders are just one of the ways in which we will tackle offenders during the Halloween and Bonfire Night period.”

Councillor Jim Garner, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for stronger communities, told The Northern Echo: “Our community safety and civic enforcement officers work closely with police, other partners and local communities to ensure Darlington is a safe place for all.

“We would always urge parents to be aware of where their children are and what they get up to, and if anyone witnesses antisocial behaviour, do please report it, either to the police or the council”. 

Dispersal orders have also been issued in other towns over the Halloween period, including Clifton and a district of Surrey. 

Nottinghamshire Police said the order would be in place for 48 hours from 4pm on Thursday, and Surrey Police said their order covers the entire borough of Spelthorne and is in place from 12pm on Thursday until 12pm on Saturday.