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Dispersal order extended after anti-social behaviour at Staffordshire beauty spot

A dispersal order at a Staffordshire beauty spot has been extended as police attempt to crack down on anti-social behaviour.

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Milford Common. Photo: Google StreetView.

Staffordshire Police put in a 24-hour dispersal order at Milford Common, near Stafford, on Thursday after concerns were raised by residents.

The order for an area of Milford Common, on the edge of Cannock Chase, has now been extended and will last until midday on Sunday.

The order, which has been granted under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, gives officers the power to disperse anyone for the purpose of or reducing the likelihood of members of the public being harassed, alarmed, distressed or the occurrence of crime and disorder.

Chief Inspector Giles Parsons from Stafford’s Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “Following an increase in calls from concerned residents, officers will be patrolling the area over the coming days to tackle any instances of crime or anti-social behaviour.

"We understand that people will want to enjoy places like Milford Common and the wider countryside but we ask that it’s respected. In the current climate, social distancing measures also need to be adhered to.

“I would like to stress that officers will only use these powers where absolutely necessary and appeal to parents and guardians to ensure that they know where their children are, what they are up to and who they are with.”

Anyone with any concerns can contact Staffordshire Police by calling 101.

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