AN operation has been launched to protect neighbourhoods from juvenile tearaways during the school holidays.

Schools across Teesside staggered end-of-term closure times yesterday to prevent a mass exodus of excited youngsters causing problems on the streets.

Some schools ended the term at lunchtime yesterday, others at 2pm, and others an hour later.

Combined briefings were held across the area, involving up to 350 police officers and scores of council street wardens.

They remained on duty until late last night, maintaining high-profile patrols in potential hotspots, including off-licences selling alcohol to youngsters.

Mobile and foot patrols were increased on housing estates last night and mounted police officers brought in.

Inspector Gary Gamesby said: "It is in everyone's interests. It is to make it safe for the children and safe for communities. Friday night is traditionally bad for anti-social behaviour as it is the beginning of the weekend."

He said police would be monitoring off-licences because there was often a link between anti-social behaviour and under-age drinking.

He appealed to off-licence staff not to sell to anyone they suspected was under-age or to anyone who they suspected would pass on a purchase to a youngster.

Insp Gamesby warned parents that they had a responsibility to know where their children were and what they were up to.

He urged residents whose homes overlook schools to maintain a watchful eye during the holiday.

Insp Gamesby said: "We would certainly echo the call to residents to ring the police if they see anything untoward."

Councillor Barry Coppinger, Middlesbrough Council's executive member for community safety and leisure, said: "This is a prime example of the co-ordinated and proactive approach which all agencies in the town are taking on community safety issues.

"I hope it is bringing substantial reassurance to residents and visitors that we are deploying all our resources effectively and making Middlesbrough a much safer place."