PARISH councillors are planning to take action to prevent a village green being ruined by "boy racers".

Neasham Parish Council is concerned about youths driving their cars over the green, close to the River Tees.

Council chairman John Weighell said: "They drive over the green to get to the river, but it was so bad one evening that the police came out with the dogs.

"I have received a letter from a resident who has suggested we put a metal gate over the bridleway to prevent cars driving up the riverbank.

"There has been a significant increase in cars driving up there, and it is churning up the grass and creating a serious hazard to pedestrians and horse riders. A serious accident will occur."

The council has agreed to erect warning signs.

A letter will be sent to Darlington Borough Council's legal department seeking advice on the issue and the wording for the signs.