POLICE are set to step up patrols in Warrington town centre following an increase in anti-social behaviour.

Several concerning incidents involving youths have been reported in central Warrington in recent weeks.

One such altercation earlier this month allegedly saw an employee at Warrington Market assaulted by teens, leading to them being temporarily blinded.

Police reportedly attended the Subway branch on Bridge Street and Warrington Bus Interchange on Saturday night due to youths causing disruption inside, with staff and customers at Superbowl UK in Golden Square Shopping Centre having also reportedly been abused.

Meanwhile, a 13-year-old boy was arrested in the area on suspicion of assault earlier in the afternoon.

Workers and visitors have also reported a wider increase in anti-social behaviour over the past few weeks and months.

One resident told the Warrington Guardian that ‘yobs carrying weapons were running riot’ in the town centre, which was described by another as a ‘no-go area’.

Some staff working in centrally-based businesses say they have requested to change their working hours as a direct result of the ongoing problems.

After being asked to comment on the issue, Cheshire Police say that ‘a number of youths’ have been arrested following incidents – with dispersal orders having been implemented.

Inspector Dan Haddock said: “Due to an increase in reports of youths committing anti-social behaviour within the town centre, there is now a visible policing presence with officers carrying out patrols in the area.

“A number of youths have been arrested and we have put dispersal orders in place which should help to prevent this behaviour.

“All of the work we are doing is in partnership with the local council, and officers have been visiting schools to engage with children about this type of behaviour but to also identify those who might be responsible.

“While the majority of youngsters are well behaved, our work will be ongoing until the town is an even safer place for the public and local businesses.

“If you are a parent and your children are using the town centre, I would urge you to encourage them to act responsibly and do not become involved in anti-social behaviour “If they do, and they are identified, we will be looking to take positive action.

“If anyone has information, please speak to an officer or report it via our website.”