GANGS of youths causing ‘mayhem’ in an Urmston shopping precinct forced police to take the unusual step of issuing a dispersal order for the entire bank holiday weekend.

Officers employed the anti-social behaviour order powers between August 28 to 31 after repeat problems caused by groups up to 50-strong congregating in Eden Square.

A spokesman for GMP Trafford North’s Facebook page said the order was in place due to the large numbers of youths ‘causing mayhem’, with reports of shoplifting and abusive behaviour.

They added: “There is a large number of venerable adults that live in Eden Square and they have been petrified by this behaviour as have the staff that work in the shops.

“We have been checking the CCTV and have identified a lot of the people involved and will be taking the appropriate action.

“We all deserve to live and go to work without fear. This is not directed at the small groups of children that meet up causing no harm, but unfortunately we have to take this action.”

The Eden Square measures provoked a mixed response among Trafford residents on social media.

In a separate development, Trafford Council and Greater Manchester Police issued a joint letter to parents of school children in the borough warning them to be aware of the children’s whereabouts following antisocial behaviour incidents in parks.

A spokesman for GMP Trafford North said the letter related to ‘large fights in Sale and Stretford’.

They added: “The main offenders have been identified and have or are being dealt with. However lots of children have just turned up to watch and this could get them in trouble.”

Have you been affected by anti-social behaviour in Eden Square? Email sam.editorial@messengergrp.co.uk or write to Messenger Newspapers, Alexander House, 94 Talbot Road, Old Trafford, M16 0PG.