Police have been given extra powers to reduce anti-social behaviour during the Epsom Derby.

The Epsom Derby runs from May 31 to June 1 and police have decided that a Section 35 dispersal order is needed to ensure public safety.

The order will be active throughout Epsom, including town, rail stations, and racecourse areas, from 11am on Friday, May 31 to 6am Sunday, June 2.

The Derby Stakes, also known as the Derby or the Epsom Derby, is a Group 1 flat horse race at the Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey and is held on the first Saturday of June each year.

A Section 35 dispersal order gives police power to remove individuals from specific areas if their behaviour is anti-social, criminal or disorderly, including actions causing public alarm or distress.

The public is encouraged to continue reporting any anti-social behaviour through private messages on social media or the police website link http://spkl.io/618544zlJ.

Borough Commander for Epsom and Ewell, Inspector Kelly Clifton-Sinclair said: “We’re putting this dispersal order in place over the two days of the Epsom Derby to help us to keep residents and the local community safe. The dispersal order will also enable us to reduce any anti-social behaviour in the area during that time.

“We will have dedicated patrols in the area across the two days, and would encourage anyone to speak to us if they have any concerns. Your safety is our priority, and we will be there, should you need us, across the weekend.”

A spokesperson for Surrey Police said: “With the Epsom Derby taking place this Friday and Saturday (31 May and 1 June), there will be a Section 35 dispersal order in place to help keep everyone safe.

“The dispersal order covers all of Epsom, including the town, train stations, and racecourse areas from 11am on Friday, 31 May to 6am on Sunday, 2 June.

“A Section 35 dispersal order gives the police the power to remove individuals from a specified area where their behaviour is contributing, or likely to contribute, to anti-social behaviour, crime and disorder.

“This includes behaviour that causes other members of the public alarm or distress.

“We would urge members of the public to continue reporting any incidents of anti-social behaviour to us through private message on social media or on our website http://spkl.io/618544zlJ.

“Always call 999 in an emergency.”