Chaos erupted in Sidmouth on Tuesday evening as a large group of youths wreaked havoc across the town centre, prompting police to impose a section 35 dispersal order. Connaught Gardens, one of the town’s most visited attractions with its seaside views and manicured landscapes, suffered serious damage.

A glasshouse containing exotic plants was smashed, while toilets, bins, and other glazed areas were also targeted. The order, which allows police to bar individuals from a designated area for 48 hours, came after reports of up to 100 youths causing trouble.

Officers arrived shortly after 7.30pm to break up the group. No arrests were made, though some youths were collected by parents and others left on their own.

The dispersal order remains in effect across central Sidmouth until 8.15pm on New Year’s Day, as investigations continue.

Police warned on Facebook: “Anyone found committing offences or engaging in anti-social behaviour will be dealt with swiftly, including arrest where necessary. There will be zero tolerance for further disruption, damage, or anti-social behaviour within the area.”

Sidmouth Town Council called the incident “first and foremost a policing matter” and expressed support for law enforcement. The council added: “This behaviour is, fortunately, unusual for Sidmouth and does not reflect the character of the vast majority of our young people.”

Cllr Stuart Hughes told the Sidmouth Herald he saw about 40 youths in Temple Street around 6pm, spilling into the road as they made their way to the town centre.

He said: “They should know better. There are lots of decent kids, but a minority spoil it for the majority.”

Other local councillors described the dispersal order as unprecedented. Cllr Kelvin Dent said: “It’s a very sad state of affairs. I am not aware of anything on that scale ever happening in Sidmouth.” Cllr Chris Lockyear added: “In my nine-and-a-half years here, I’ve never seen anything like this.”

Police are asking anyone with information about the incident or those responsible to contact them on 101 or online, quoting reference number 50250332031.