Durham Police have confirmed dispersal orders are now in place in three County Durham communities as calls are made for calm following a week of riots. 

The dispersal orders cover parts of Durham City, Bishop Auckland and Crook to address potential disorder.

Superintendent Ian Leach, of Durham Constabulary, said: “Durham Constabulary will deal robustly with any individual intent on harming our communities.

“We issued 37 dispersal notices in Durham City yesterday and we will use those same powers elsewhere in the county today where necessary.”

County Durham leaders have issued a call for peace and unity amid reports of far-right demonstrations this week. 

Police chiefs, politicians, and local authority leaders came together to condemn the “disgusting scenes” seen around the country and vowed to identify anyone involved in future incidents. 

The widespread disorder across the country followed the fatal stabbings of three girls at a holiday club in Southport last week. Groups of rioters in Hartlepool, Sunderland, and Middlesbrough smashed the windows of businesses, houses, and cars and hurled objects at officers last week. 

With reports of far-right demonstrations in Durham and Bishop Auckland this week, politicians distanced themselves from the demonstrations and said it does not represent the views of “welcoming and inclusive” communities in County Durham. 

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Police remain ready to tackle violence after a week of unrest, with forces across the nation monitor reports of at least 30 possible gatherings and threats against immigration law specialists, some of which had either closed or accepted offers of additional police protection.

Businesses, such as restaurants, bars, shops and beauty parlours have been advised to close early, or not open at all, if there is a risk of disturbances.