Police have put a Watford town centre dispersal order in place from lunchtime after kids caused chaos when schools broke up last year.

At the time footage circulated widely on social media showing teenagers hysterically charging around as schools finished for summer, before some were put in the back of police vans on suspicion of breaching the peace and assault.

Businesses were forced to temporarily close and transport routes were blocked during the afternoon.

Herts Police confirmed the order today (July 19), which gives officers extra powers to disperse anyone causing or likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress to members of the public.

The area covered by the order.The area covered by the order. (Image: Herts Police) Police can direct anyone under the age of 16 to leave the area or take them home or to a place of safety.

“We have been working with the atria shopping centre and members of the Watford Community Safety Partnership to ensure that those going about their daily business can do so safely,” a force spokesperson said this morning.

“If anyone is found to be acting antisocially, appropriate action will be taken and we will work with local schools to identify those responsible.

Kids clinging to a moving bus and a group of police in atria Watford last year.Kids clinging to a moving bus and a group of police in atria Watford last year. (Image: TikTok)

“Officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team will be in the town centre this afternoon to ensure we can take swift action, should anything require our attention.

“Let’s make sure everyone has a great start to the summer holidays and start the new school year positively in September.”