A TEENAGER made subject of Britain's toughest anti-social behaviour (Asbo) order had two of his restrictions relaxed because his conduct has improved.

Shane Preston was praised by police and magistrates for the progress he has made in recent weeks when he appeared before South West Durham magistrates yesterday.

Chris Southey, on behalf of Durham Police Constabulary, said the 14-year-old's behaviour had turned around since he had spent time at Aycliffe Centre for Children, in Newton Aycliffe, near Darlington.

The teenager hit the headlines in September last year after an application by Darlington Borough Council led to him being banned from entering the town's Skerne Park estate and surrounding areas for four years.

He was also banned from kicking or throwing footballs against any property or vehicle and from taking or interfering with property or riding motorbikes.

Preston, who now lives in Rowan Place, Newton Aycliffe, went on to breach the conditions of his Asbo four times and was finally given a detention and training order for four months.

It was then he started making positive progress, according to Mr Southey.

He said: "Shane's interest in motorbikes was used in a positive manor and he was able to look at motorbike maintenence under supervision.

"He was very interested in this and even though he has now left the centre, he still attends to carry on maintaining bikes.

"Police officers have seen a change for the better in Shane's behaviour and you can have a conversation with him, which has been nothing short of a revelation.''

Magistrates agreed to alter the wording on his Asbo so that the teenager can now ride a motorbike whilst under supervision or with prior consent by Durham Constabulary. He will also be able to take part in organised ball games.

Afterwards, Mr Southey said: "I think that Shane's progress is very reassuring for the public and it shows that Asbos do work.''