A YEAR-LONG clampdown on persistent criminals in Middlesbrough's Gresham area is continuing with fresh impetus.

Last June, the criminals blighting the lives of people living in the area were warned by Cleveland Police "You are not in charge, we are."

And officers have vowed to continue their work in the area, as police and partner agencies focus on a variety of offending and anti-social behaviour.

Yesterday, new neighbourhood policing staff were joined by police community support officers (PCSOs), colleagues from the mounted section and street wardens in a bid to encourage residents to continue to come forward with information.

Sergeant Mark Hall, from the neighbourhood policing team, said: "We want to reiterate that our efforts in Gresham will never stop. We will do whatever it takes to clampdown on crime and anti-social behaviour."

A command vehicle was parked in various prominent positions throughout the day, in the hope that residents would call in to meet their local officers and discuss any concerns they may have.

Members of the public are also being encouraged to contact their neighbourhood policing team officers on 01642-302900.