RECORDED incidences of anti-social behaviour dropped by 14 per cent across County Durham and Darlington in 12 months.

A Public Performance Report by Police, Crime and Victims’ Commissioner for County Durham, Ron Hogg, also revealed there were reductions in every neighbourhood policing area.

Mr Hogg said:“This decrease in anti-social behaviour is good news for everyone living in the area, and police and partners are continuing to work hard on behalf of our communities.

“Whilst these figures are good news, we will not rest on our laurels and will continue to work with local people to prevent and tackle anti-social behaviour.”

Elsewhere, there have increases in burglary, vehicle crime, shoplifting and criminal damage.