Police crackdown after fireworks let off near shops

A dispersal zone has been introduced in Formby following reports that fireworks were set off outside shops in the town.

There were posts on social media that fireworks were let off outside shops on Duke Street last night.  Locals have also told the ECHO that a shopworker has left distressed after a firework was let off in the area.

have confirmed they have received reports of anti-social behaviour involving fireworks and fires in the area.

A dispersal zone has now been set up in the area surrounding Duke Street park, which gives police the power to break up groups of people they suspect of causing trouble.

The dispersal zone covers Chapel Lane, Brows Lane, Freshfield Road, Kings Road, Duke Street (Formby Train Station), Raven Meols Lane, Liverpool Road Back to the junction (Roundabout) with Three Tuns Lane.

The powers came into affect at 6pm today and will last until 1am tmw.

A spokesman said to the ECHO: "Officers in Sefton will be setting up a dispersal zone in Formby following reports of anti-social behaviour associated with the use of fireworks and making fires in the area."

Inspector Simon Rowland said: “This order is not about bothering people going about their legitimate daily business. But we recognise the impact anti-social behaviour has on individuals and communities, and we will be targeting people involved in this type of behaviour for the next 48 hours.

“The dispersal zone gives us the powers we need to deal effectively with people and I would urge anyone in the area with any information on anti-social or criminal activity in their area to contact 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”