POLICE have sealed a house in a County Durham village following claims that violence, drug taking and antisocial behaviour was blighting the neighbourhood.

Police warned that people leading "chaotic, dysfunctional and criminal lifestyles" were not welcome in Grange Villa, near Chester-le-Street, after securing an order to prevent people from entering a house in the village.

The property in West Street has been sealed and its occupants Mark Taylor and Dionne DiCaprio moved on.

Sergeant Mick Richardson, from the neighbourhood team, said: “The antisocial behaviour, violence and drug taking associated with this house and its visitors has caused intimidation and distress to law-abiding people in the area.

“That is wholly unacceptable and this type of disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated in Grange Villa.

“I hope today’s action sends out a clear message that those who lead chaotic, dysfunctional and criminal lifestyles are not welcome in Grange Villa and we will take action against them.

“We are also working with landlords to ensure that problem tenants are tackled effectively, and to prevent new problem tenants from coming into the area.

“I’d like to thank the community for their patience and support while we addressed the issue. I hope they can sleep well tonight knowing they will no longer be disrupted by this property and this couple.”

An application made under the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 was granted by Peterlee Magistrates' Court today (Wednesday) and will be in place until February 28.

Anyone experiencing problems of antisocial behaviour is encouraged to call Durham Police on 101.