POLICE have urged residents not to take "the law into their own hands" after a spate of anti-social behaviour incidents on a street in Leigh.

Patrols have been increased on Glebe Street recently and police have introduced "dispersal powers" to combat the issue.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has also worked with Wigan Council to install a CCTV camera at the road's junction with Prescott Street.

A GMP spokesman said: “There has already been a positive impact from the work carried out so far, which has resulted in two arrests, and we’re hoping that long-term, we will be able to reduce the number of incidents in the area.

"We are aware that residents have been trying to resolve incidents themselves however, we want to discourage people from taking the law into their own hands.

"We recognise that people are keen to assist in keeping their communities safe and we appreciate the fact that many people want to help, however we would instead encourage people to report incidents to the police right away so that there can be an appropriate police response.

“We understand that over recent weeks there have been increased community tensions and reports of incidents of anti-social behaviour, and we want to reassure residents that GMP and Wigan Council are committed to tackling these issues and holding those responsible to account.

"We will continue working closely with community groups to engage with residents and listen to their concerns.

“We would encourage anyone who has been a victim of crime to report it at the earliest opportunity so that any incidents can be investigated fully."

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To report an incident contact police on 101 or use the Live Chat function on the GMP website.

People can also get in touch with the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Phone 999 in the event of an emergency.