ADDITIONAL crime-curbing powers have been given to police officers operating in a seaside town after reports of gangs fighting with weapons.

Essex Police officers in Leigh have been granted more stringent stop and search powers following several concerning reports.

Between 3pm and 5pm today the force received a vast number of worrying calls in relation to groups of people fighting with weapons.

As a result, a decision was made to authorise the use of stricter stop and search powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.

The move means officers operating in Leigh will not need to have reasonable grounds to carry out a stop and search, where usually they would.

The force will be able to utilise the benefits of the additional powers between 6.50pm today and 4.50am tomorrow.

Echo: Stop and search - Essex Police introduce new powers in Leigh (covered by the map) over fears of gangs fighting Stop and search - Essex Police introduce new powers in Leigh (covered by the map) over fears of gangs fighting

Inspector Andrew Jopson said: “We won’t tolerate people committing crime and carrying out act of violence and these extended powers are just one of the tools we have available to protect the public.

“If you are in the area overnight you will see an increased police presence but please do not be alarmed.

“I want to thank the public in advance for their understanding and co-operation.”