POLICE have cracked down on youth disorder in a town following complaints of fire setting and objects being thrown into the road at passing cars.

Peterlee police say two youths, aged 12 and 14, had been through their custody suite in relation to arson, criminal damage and public order offences at the weekend.

One of these youths has been referred to the youth offending service as a result.

Inspector Lee Blakelock said: “We have CCTV footage of more youths responsible for these incidents and we are continuing to work and identify these, using social media if necessary.

"I would urge these young people to think for a second of the consequences of their actions.

"The two youths already identified have had the embarrassment of being brought into police custody, fingerprinted, photographed, interviewed under caution with their parents present and had their DNA taken.

"They are now banned from the town centre. Is it really worth it.”

He added: "Work is ongoing with both the town council and county council to restore youth provision to the town. We want to give young people the opportunity to engage in activities they want."