A DISPERSAL order aiming to tackle anti social behaviour has been put in place around a town centre.

The Woolwich zone comes into force on September 2, allowing Greenwich police to break up groups causing a disturbance.

Officers will also have the authority to return anyone under the age of sixteen to their homes if they are involved in anti social behaviour within the zone.

it follows a number of incidents where people have been harassed by groups of youths.

The dispersal order will run for six months after which the order will be reviewed.

Police Sergeant Domenico Tucci, in charge of the Woolwich town centre team, said: “The dispersal order will give us the authority to remove those groups who are causing a disturbance in and around Woolwich town centre.

“A large number of people travel into the area every day and we will ensure they are able to do so without being subjected to unacceptable behaviour.

“Tackling anti social behaviour is one of our daily priorities and we will continue to target those involved in this type of activity.”