A DISPERSAL order placed to stop groups of youngsters from congregating over the weekend did the trick, officers have said.

Concerns were raised recently due to incidents of youths gathering in large numbers and acting in an anti-social manner at Rishton Waterfalls, where a public health incident was declared earlier this month after a number of children became ill after swimming in the water, and Jackhouse Nature Reserve in Oswaldtwistle.

In view of this Hyndburn geographic Inspector Steve Rides authorised dispersal orders covering each location to ensure further gatherings were prevented.

On Saturday evening, a police spokesman said: “To our delight we have found no youths congregating or endangering themselves in these areas. “Fingers crossed this continues and we will continue our patrols over the weekend.”

If you are aware of any youths causing ASB please contact 101