Fighting among young men in Harborough parks - some near children - led police to enforce removal order in town

Fighting among young men in Harborough parks - some near children - led police to enforce a removal order in town.

Harborough Police said a dispersal order was issued covering the town and surrounding areas after anti-social behaviour.

The order, which was in place from 11.30pm yesterday (Wednesday) until 7am this morning (Thursday), gave officers the power to ask people to leave the area to 'reduce the risk of harassment, alarm or distress to the local community and to also reduce the risk of any further public disorder'.

A police spokesperson said: "During the course of yesterday (Wednesday) evening a number of reports were received of fights between groups of young males in parks and the town centre.

"Members of the public reported being very distressed and children were nearby some of the incidents.

"Following police attendance, the youths left the area. No injuries were reported during the evening."

Sergeant Pete Jelbert said: “It was a disappointing that the order was necessary but we took swift action to restore order and protect the public.

“Following the order being issued, our officers continued to carry out proactive patrols throughout the night.

“We’d like to thank the members of the public who contacted us to report their concerns. We urge anyone to get in touch with us and we always act on all reports we receive.”