YOUTHS have been warned to ‘face the consequences of their actions’ following a string of anti-social behaviour in and around Odeon in Barons Quay.

Police have had numerous reports of unruly behaviour since the cinema opened in December, including teenagers throwing eggs and an assault on a 73-year old man.

On Saturday, police received reports of youths gathered outside the cinema playing loud music, shouting, swearing and spitting near the new steps opposite the cinema.

Two members of the group were taken home to their families after one spat in front of an officer and the other played ‘loud’ music ‘littered with offensive words’ from a boombox.

On January 14, a 16-year-old boy and a 15-year-old boy, both from Northwich, and a 17-year-old boy from Winsford, were reprimanded for throwing eggs around the toilets inside the Odeon.

They have all been interviewed and referred to youth offending teams.

On January 15, a 17-year-old girl and two 13-year-old boys from Davenham assaulted a 73-year-old man inside the cinema.

The youths failed to attend for a voluntary interview over the weekend.

Insp Dave Snasdell, from Northwich Local Policing Unit (LPU), said: “They will be offered a further voluntary interview and if they fail to attend they will be considered to be arrested.”

In December, vandals defaced the new multi-million pound cinema with the-now infamous misspelt graffiti less than 24 hours after opening.

Chief Insp Simon Meegan, from Northwich LPU, confirmed there will now be an increased police presence in the area following the increase in anti-social behaviour.

He said: “Since the Barons Quay development opened last year, the majority of people have been able to enjoy this new development.

“However, the occasional actions of a few have needlessly spoiled the enjoyment for some visitors.

“We have issued dispersal orders in recent weeks and also dealt with a number of individuals committing anti-social behaviour.

“We will continue to work with local businesses and undertake additional patrols in the area.

“Anyone involved with this type of behaviour should consider the impact on others and be prepared to face the consequences of their actions.”

A spokesman for Odeon was not available to comment at the time of going to press.