Bomb threats and assaults lead to dispersal orders

Bomb threats, assaults and criminal damage have led to dispersal orders being issued in two Lincolnshire towns.

Lincolnshire Police said 22 young people had been identified as suspects associated with reported anti-social behaviour in Sutton Bridge and Holbeach.

Both orders will run from 19:00 on Friday 23 October BST to 19:00 GMT on Sunday 25 October.

Insp Paul Smith from the force said a "small number" of individuals had caused "significant disruption" for local residents.

He added: "Reports of assaults and purported bomb threats are not a joke. They divert police resources away from genuine emergencies and put members of the public at risk.

"We will continue to use all powers available to us to identify those responsible and bring them before the courts where appropriate."

Smith asked parents and carers to ensure the whereabouts of their children, adding: "If your child becomes involved in this sort of behaviour, the consequences can be serious and long-lasting."

Earlier this month, officers issued a dispersal order for Sutton Bridge following reports of eggs and stones being thrown at people and buildings.

The orders give officers additional powers to direct those involved in, or likely to be involved in, anti-social behaviour to leave the area. Those who do not follow the order may be arrested.

The force said inquiries into the anti-social behaviour were ongoing and further action would be taken where appropriate.

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