WE shared the news that a 'dispersal order' was placed on Carlisle by Cumbria Police amid 'reports circulating online of potential planned disorder' in the city on August 7.

There was to be an increased police presence throughout the day, and a dispersal order for the city centre and surrounding area in place until midnight, the constabulary said.

The announcement follows days of anti-social behaviour and rioting in towns and cities across the country. The unrest has spread following the tragic deaths of three stabbing victims in Southport, Merseyside, on Monday, July 29.

Here's what readers said.

Charlotte Doran said: "Stay safe everyone. Feel for all the hardworking innocent people who are going to get caught up in this."

Ian Green said: "This will all mysteriously stop next weekend. The football is back on."

Rab Barrie said: "Town centre will be empty except for the delivery lads on bikes."

Tara Unison said: "I’ve spoken with businesses in the area this afternoon who were frightened and boarding up and going home to be safe with their families."

One web user said: "Anyone threatening to go out needs to be locked up. The original tragedy is barely mentioned. Too many use this as an excuse to cause mayhem for no apparent reason."