Fireworks fears as town brings in extra police powers to deal with youths ahead of bonfire night

Police in a Welsh town have been given extra powers to deal with youths causing anti-social behaviour ahead of bonfire night. The move was made in connection to an incident involving an "unsafe bonfire". A dispersal order was issued for the Nant-Y-Fedw area of Abercynon late on Monday night, 24 hours before fireworks displays are expected to mark Guy Fawkes night.

South Wales Police said the decision was made following anti-social behaviour in the area on Monday night after the local authority issued an enforcement notice to remove a bonfire. Setting off fireworks in the wrong place could see you jailed

Superintendent Michelle Conquer said: “South Wales Fire and Rescue Service have advised that the bonfire was not safe, and that there has been a suggestion from the local community that it contained items that could be harmful, we are therefore asked members of the local community to leave the area in order that the fire service could deal with the situation for everyone’s safety”

The dispersal order, which was granted under the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014, applies to those aged 10 years and over and will be in place for 48 hours from 5pm, Monday November 4, to 5pm on Wednesday November 6. It will cover the area as shown on the map.

The police have pointed out that the order means anyone aged 10 to 16 years of age will be subject to the legislation and will be removed to their home address or to a place of safety. Officers will also have the power to seize any property which officers suspect is being used to cause anti social behaviour.

A statement from the force said: "Officers will have additional resources and will be conducting high visibility patrols in the community to reassure the public and deal with any issues to ensure that residents remain and feel safe."