TWO officers were allegedly punched and spat at in a night of violence in Basildon.

Essex Police launched a dispersal zone in the town centre over the weekend following a "high number" of incidents including assaults and criminal damage

Officers responded to a series of calls in the area on Saturday, reporting anti-social behaviour from a group of people.

While responding to these incidents, two officers were assaulted by being punched and spat at, the force said.

A spokesman for Essex Police: “A 13-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of two counts of assault against an emergency service worker.

“She has since been charged and will appear at Basildon Magistrates Court on Monday.

“A 14-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of assault and has since been released without further action.”

The dispersal order was put in place overnight, which allowed officers and PCSOs to direct individuals to leave a location and to confiscate items which might be used to commit anti-social behaviour.

Police received no further reports relating to the previous incidents following the issuing of the dispersal order.

Det Supt Shaun Kane said: “Those in Basildon Town Centre would have noticed an increased police presence in the area last night following the issue of a dispersal order.

“We received a number of reports yesterday afternoon of around 30 young people in the town centre, committing offences including criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.

“Our officers responded quickly to keep the public safe and it is unacceptable that two officers should be assaulted whilst doing their duty.

“We have considered the Dispersal Order to have been successful in reducing the disorder but we are continuing to work with our partners, including business owners to ensure this disorder does not occur.”

The dispersal order was used to curtail anti-social and violent behaviour in Basildon.

A spokesman for Essex Police added: “Antisocial behaviour takes many forms, from aggressive, noisy or abusive behaviour to neighbourhood disturbances involving drugs or animals.

“If you’ve witnessed antisocial behaviour, please report it to us.

“Your neighbourhood can be an area where you live, work, or visit often.”