More police in Newbury tonight after rumours of possible disturbances

Police have stepped up patrols in the town centre this evening (Tuesday) amid rumours of possible disorder

POLICE have stepped up patrols in Newbury town centre this evening (Tuesday) amid rumours of potential disorder in the area.

Some shops and restaurants, including Laura Ashley and Pizza Express, have closed early “due to unforeseen circumstances”, while the Kennet Shopping centre and car park have been closed, with a sign on the doors to the shopping centre stating that no films will be shown at the seven-screen Vue cinema after 5pm.

Newbury town centre neighbourhood inspector, Dave Milsom, said police had increased patrols in the town centre in response the recent riot incidents in London and other UK cities, adding that the police were providing a visible presence to reassure the retailers and the local community.

Insp Milsom added, however, that the decision for shops to shut had been taken by them alone, adding that no discussions had been held between retailers and the police.

He said this decision may have been based on rumours on social networking websites such as Facebook and Twitter, although he said the police had no intelligence to suggest anything would happen in the town tonight (Tuesday).

Both Twitter and Facebook carried many status updates from worried residents who had heard of the trouble and were passing the information on.

Several calls also came in to the Newburytoday.co.uk newsroom from people living and working in the town who had heard of the potential disorder and felt panicked by the rumours being spread.

To see a video interview with Insp Milsom, click on the link above.