POLICE have made four arrests following an outbreak of anti-social behaviour across the town last night which saw 71 incidents take place linked to disorder and criminality.

Reported incidents include cars being damaged, bus shelters smashed and fireworks thrown.

Sutton, Clock Face, Billinge and Parr were among the areas affected.

A number of dispersal zones have also been put in place around Recreation Street, Clock Face Road and Sutton Park to give officers the powers to move on groups of youths who are gathering and suspected of causing annoyance or anti-social behaviour.

Police have released details in relation to three of last night's arrests.

A 13-year-old boy from Billinge was arrested in Roby Well Way on suspicion of possessing of an offensive weapon after the report of youths setting off fireworks in the street.

Meanwhile, a 13-year-old boy from St Helens and a 16-year-old boy from St Helens were arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated public order after officers were called to Cooper Street following alleged racial abuse of a shop owner.

The boys were detained in Crab Street after officers attended and both have been released under investigation.

Local Policing Inspector Matt Drennan said: “We will not tolerate incidents of anti-social behaviour in St Helens at any time of year and we will have a large number officers in the area tonight and over the Bonfire Night period to support the local community.

"I want to make it clear that is not acceptable to throw things at people or their homes, commit criminal damage or abuse or intimidate people.

"Fireworks should be enjoyed at organised events as they provide safe, controlled displays in places that are suitable. We would encourage people to take advantage of organised events rather than risking the safety of themselves, their family and friends and members of the community.

"The support of parents and guardians is vital at this time of year. They can minimise the risk by not letting children hang around the streets with nowhere to go and know who they are with and what they are doing, especially in the run up to Halloween and Bonfire Night.

"It is also illegal for those under the age of 18 to buy, carry, or use fireworks and under the Explosives Act of 1875 it is illegal to let off or throw a firework in a public place.

"Anyone involved in criminal behaviour could be arrested and receive a fine, a criminal record or even jail time. If your child is under 16 then you will be liable for payment of any fine.

"By taking some simple steps it could prevent that knock on their door from a police officer informing them that their child has been arrested or, worse still, has been involved in a serious accident."

Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service attended 45 incidents of anti-social behaviour fires, compared with 64 on the same night in 2016.

For information on activities happening over the Hallowe'en and Bonfire Night period in Merseyside, visit merseyside.police.uk/autumn-fun-2017