A dispersal order has been granted for Rayleigh Town Centre, stopping anti-social youths from entering the area after issues with yobs terrorising shops and shoppers.

It is in place until 6am tomorrow.

Youths causing issues can be asked to move on if they are seen acting in an anti-social way.

They will be given a dispersal notice, meaning they will be unable to come within the boundaries of the dispersal order for 48 hours.

The dispersal order covers the following roads; The Approach, London Road, including the railway station, Station Crescent, Upway to Hockley Road, Hockley Road into Derwent Avenue and the un-named alleyways to Bull Lane and Kings Road, Queens Road to junction with Eastwood Road including un-named alleyways to Nursery Close, and a section of Daws Heath Road along Castle Road to High Street and Love Lane back to the Railway station.