A dispersal zone is being rolled out around Wembley Stadium later this week to protect fans of boyband One Direction.

Police are bringing in the measures as thousands of screaming and singing teenage girls will flock to the venue to watch their idols for three nights from Friday.

Many will camp overnight to ensure a front stage position leaving them open to crooks who will prowl the area for targets.

From this Thursday until Sunday police and PCSOs will have the power to order suspicious groups of two or more to leave the area.

If they refuse to leave or return within 24 hours they can be arrested and hauled before the courts where they can be fined a maximum of £2,500 or jailed for up to three months.

Chief Superintendent Michael Gallagher, Brent Police borough commander, said: “Once again we have initiated a pro active response in order to assist us in minimising crime and disorder at a significant event at the stadium.

“My officers and those officers that assist us in policing the event on the day will use the power intrusively but proportionately to ensure that a good day is had by all, but within the bounds of behaving in a responsible and law abiding manner.”