A DISPERSAL Order introduced to help reduce youth nuisance in Mill Hill is being extended until the end of November.

The order, which was introduced in May, was initially due to last until October but police and the local authority have now secured a further month.

Since the order was set up criminal damage has reduced by 56 per cent and anti social behaviour has reduced by over 20 per cent.

Community Beat Manager for Mill Hill, PC Sue Moore said: "The Dispersal Order was set up in response to community concerns about youth nuisance in Mill Hill and so far we have seen a significant reduction in criminal damage and anti social behaviour has gone down over 20 per cent."

The Anti Social Behaviour Dispersal Order was the first to be set up in Blackburn and involved the joint work of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and the police.

PC Moore added: "The Dispersal Order is just one of a range of measures used in the area to tackle anti social behaviour and I hope local residents are reassured that we do listen to their concerns and will take action against anyone found to be behaving inappropriately in the Mill Hill area.

"To be completely effective the Dispersal Order needs the continued support and co-operation of the local community. If any acts of criminal damage or nuisance occur the incidents should be reported as soon as possible to the local police."