POLICE are upping patrols across Flintshire this Halloween weekend.

With groups of youths expected to be out in Flintshire on Thursday night and into the weekend, police say dispersal powers will be in place in certain areas.

Sergeant Gavin Gilmore, of South Flintshire Police, said: "This Halloween will be launching Operation Blue Anvil that will see more officers on patrol and dispersal orders in place.

"Under Section 34 of the 2014 Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, dispersal orders will be in place in the St Davids area of Ewloe, Broughton, Buckley, Mynydd Isa and Mold areas on Thursday, Friday and Saturday having been signed off by Inspector Gareth Pearson.

"This gives officers the power remove groups from a specific area for up to 24 hours, and if they return they will be arrested.

"We will be on the lookout for people letting off illegal fireworks and being in possession of offensive weapons or drugs."