POLICE in the Sedgefield area have launched an operation to combat the growing problem of youth crime.

Operation Lottie includes a series of measures to tackle under-age drinking, petty vandalism and rowdy behaviour.

Police patrols will target troublespots, and Sedgefield Borough Council's Community Force has also pledged to focus on problem areas.

Local licensees are to be contacted to enlist their support in refusing to sell alcohol to people under age. Test purchases will be considered if the problem persists.

Criminal acts will be dealt with under normal procedures. Youngsters whose behaviour falls short of this, but remains unacceptable, will have their details taken by police and be issued with a verbal warning.

If an individual comes to the notice of the police again, their parents will be sent a letter. Further transgressions will see the youngster and their parents invited to the police station to discuss their behaviour.

Sergeant Dave Wilkes, who is coordinating the project, said: "It should be said that we are talking of a relatively small number who misbehave. But their actions are a real nuisance and can cause a lot of distress and alarm, especially among older people.

"Unfortunately alcohol is a real problem.

"Apart from the fact they are invariably not old enough to drink, they also make a lot of noise and create litter. We want to make it clear this sort of behaviour will not be tolerated."

The police action, which includes Newton Aycliffe, Ferryhill, Shildon and Spennymoor, will initially be concentrated on summer evenings, but patrols will go out during the day in the school holidays.