Six people have been arrested in connection to Barrow AFC's opening home fixture of the season.

On Saturday, August 10, a dispersal order was issued by Cumbria Police from 10am until midnight to help officers deal with potential disorder in the town centre.

This came as a result of what was expected to be a 'busy day' across the region, with a peaceful unity protest planned at the same time as the return of the football season.

Chief Superintendent Carl Patrick said: “We have been robust over the past week in responding to the disorder seen elsewhere in the country in order to prevent a repeat of those scenes here.

“Whilst I thank the public for their patience and understanding, I make no apologies for this approach. Public safety is always our number one priority."

A total of seven arrests were made on Saturday, bringing the total to 20, with six of them said to be related to the football.

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A 16-year-old boy and a 14-year-old girl were charged with failing to comply with a dispersal order, and they were bailed to attend youth court at a later date.

A 27-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of failing to comply with a dispersal order, and was bailed whilst investigations continue.

A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly, and remains in police custody. 

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A 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of obstructing a police constable but was released with a caution and a 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence but subsequently released with no further action. 

"This weekend we have made a number of arrests," Chief Superintendent Patrick added. 

"However, it is clear that there has been a positive community spirit here in Cumbria which has contributed significantly to us not seeing the disorder witnessed elsewhere.

“We will continue to be robust as we move forward, however, we will work with partners to maintain public safety and allow people to go about their daily lives.”

Across the county, officers have carried out 98 stop-and-searches and given 34 dispersal notices to individuals across their operations on Wednesday (August 7) and Saturday.