Large youth gathering in Shinfield dispersed by Thames Valley Police as anti-social behaviour concerns mount

Last night in the village of Shinfield, police issued a formal dispersal order after responding to reports of a large, unauthorised youth party. Officers from Thames Valley Police were called at around late evening to scenes of loud music, large gatherings of young people, and alleged anti-social behaviours in Shinfield Meadows.

According to local authorities, the decision to invoke a dispersal order was taken to bring the situation under control, ensure community safety and avoid escalation. A dispersal order provides officers with the power to direct people to leave a specified area for a set period when anti-social behaviour is present.

Upon arrival, officers found dozens of youths congregating in open space and adjacent streets. They reported that most complied with police direction to disperse, though some delays and brief stand-offs were noted. At least one person was spoken to under the powers of the order, though no formal arrests have yet been confirmed by police.

Local residents expressed frustration over the disturbance, citing loud music and traffic into late hours. One resident said that the rapid police response helped calm the scene and avoid potential disorder. Others noted longstanding concerns about unsupervised gatherings in the area.

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police stated:

“From 21:11 hours on 28/10/2025 until 06:00 hours on 29/10/2025, there has been a Section 34 Dispersal Order authorised by Inspector WATKINSON P1009 from Loddon Valley Police Station. This Dispersal Order is going to be live during this period in the region of the list below.

For ease, includes the area's within the following roads, Hyde End Road, Arborfield Road, Hollow Lane, Eastern Relief Road, Shinfield Road, Brockers Hill, Church Lane, Hyde End Lane

You will see an influx of policing units around the following area's due to disturbances and ASB which has escalated. If you have any concerns, please feel free to speak to any Police Officer/Staff Member you see patrolling in your community either on foot or in vehicles. We will be happy to answer any questions you have.

Furthermore, if you are witnessing any ASB related offences, please do call this in on 101/999 depending on the severity and we will respond to your call.”

The dispersal order remains in place for a defined period, during which officers will patrol the specified area, and any individuals furthering anti-social activity may be subject to removal or arrest. Authorities reminded parents and guardians of the potential consequences of large unsanctioned gatherings, including noise complaints, disruption to neighbours, and possible criminal liability.