A month-long crackdown on anti-social behaviour in a former pit village has been a success.

Police carried out the Street Safe initiative in Bowburn with Durham city and county councils and the fire brigade.

"We targeted hotspots and individuals that intelligence told us were responsible for anti-social behaviour and crime,'' said Inspector Dick Dodds.

"The results were outstanding. There was a 60 per cent reduction in nuisance behaviour and criminal damage was reduced by more than 70 per cent.

"We had no reports of street drinking while the initiative was on and we have had none since.''

Insp Dodds said there had been no reports of "secondary fires'' - deliberately started fires - and that 15 untaxed cars had been seized.

Insp Dodds said: "We have had some very positive feedback from the parish council and the Bowburn and Parkhill Community Partnership.

"This initiative will take place throughout the Durham area and the next one will be at Brandon, starting on Monday.''

Police are also stepping up patrols in the Framwellgate Moor area of Durham to tackle anti-social behaviour and criminal damage caused by youngsters.

In the latest incident, a 14-year-old was arrested after a window was smashed at Framwellgate Moor Community Centre, in Front Street.

"There seems to be a hardcore causing problems,'' said Insp Dodds.

"We will be pro-actively policing the area and targeting individuals who are causing the problems.''