ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour has prompted police to set up a dispersal order in Pitsea.

The order has been in place since 8pm yesterday evening, and will run until 8pm on Sunday February 23. 

Inspector Garry Hills, from Basildon's local policing team, said: "We've received a number of calls reporting incidents of anti-social or nuisance behaviour, particularly over the past week.

"These incidents have been reported as happening near to local businesses and restaurants, causing alarm and distress to shoppers, customers and staff. 

"This is not behaviour we will tolerate within our community and any group in the dispersal zone found to be causing problems or trouble for other people, will be given an order, by officers, to leave the area. 

"Breaching any direction given under the order is a criminal offence."

The area covered by the dispersal order is outlined in the map.

Echo:

An Essex Police spokesman, added: "If you see anyone acting anti-socially or in a way which is intimidating or causes you or others distress, please call us on 101 so that we can take action.

"In an emergency always dial 999."