POLICE have hailed a dispersal order banning young people from congregating anywhere in Horwich a success.

The Bolton News reported last week how police had put in place the order following a spate of anti-social behaviour in the town which had in some cases turned violent.

Police have also been carrying out ASB - anti-social behaviour - patrols in Westhoughton, which itself was subject to a similar order following the stabbing of a teenager.

The dispersal order for Horwich covered Friday to yesterday.

A police spokesman said: "Officers from the Bolton West Neighbourhood Team have been working in partnership with Lancashire Police to prevent any further issues of disorder in Horwich this weekend in order to keep our communities safe.

"Officers have been patrolling Horwich town centre policing the Dispersal Order that has been in place and we are pleased to report that this has been successful with with very few issues reported.

"We have also had ASB patrols in Westhoughton engaging with young people this weekend were we have had one report of a large gathering in Central Park on Saturday which dispersed on police arrival.

"During our patrols on Saturday evening officers have arrested a male for driving under the influence and released pending further investigation."