SEVEN homes were raided and more than 60 vehicles taken off the streets during a four-day blitz on neighbourhood nuisances.

Operation Milkshake, which involved the police, Easington District Council and East Durham Homes, targeted Peterlee, following the success of a similar operation in Wingate, Thornley, Station Town and Trimdon last year.

During the operation, seven properties were raided by police and drugs seized.

Two people were given police warnings for possession of drugs, another two were arrested and bailed on suspicion of possessing drugs and another was charged with possession of cannabis.

Another man was bailed on suspicion of handling stolen goods after power tools were seized.

Inspector Paul Harrison, of Peterlee police, said: "The success of this operation clearly highlights the benefits of different agencies coming together to target their operations in a particular neighbourhood.

"I am confident we will see the benefits of this type of intervention in other areas of the district in the near future."

Police, customs and DVLA officers also targeted car crime and untaxed and unlicensed vehicles, with 64 vehicles seized.

Twenty-five summons and 69 fixed penalty notices were issued for traffic offences, while fines of more than £4,000 were given to drivers whose vehicles were running on red diesel.

Police also seized seven off-road motorcycles, resulting in four people receiving court summonses. Three people were handed warning notices for anti-social behaviour.

Meanwhile, staff from East Durham Homes removed 8.7 tonnes of rubbish from gardens and other areas, including five fridges, seven televisions, 19 doors and a three-piece suite.