Fleetwood fire: police orders put in place in Fleetwood whilst firefighters tackle blaze above the Mount Hotel

Emergency services were called to a fire inside a flat on the top floor of the Mount hotel on the Esplanade at 17:34pm, causing road closures in the area throughout the evening.

As firefighters remained on the scene, at 8:09pm, Fleetwood Area Police said that just two miles south, Section 60 and Section 60AA orders were put in place in Fleetwood.

The orders followed earlier incidents of disorder involving groups of men fighting, and were in place until 11.59pm, covering Fleetwood south of Eros roundabout, House of Time and Rossall Hospital.

Fleetwood Area Police said: “Sometimes ordinary stop and search powers aren't enough and enhanced Section 60 powers allow us to stop and search people and vehicles without suspicion. They are only put in place when we believe violent incidents will take place or weapons will be used. They are there to prevent crime and disorder and also to keep you safe and feeling safe.

“You should be re-assured to see a really visible policing presence in the area. However, if you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to speak to one of our officers.

“The powers are usually in place for up to 12 hours and we are obliged to tell people about them – hence this post. We will post again on this page to let you know the results of the powers being in place and whether there is going to be any extension of them...

“Thankyou for your co-operation and support.”

To find out more about Section 60 powers, look on the police website here.