Anti-social behaviour (ASB) escalated in the town earlier this year and in April 150 youngsters descended on the town.

Among them was a 13-year-old girl found by police to be in possession of a knife, who was arrested.

This week officers have reported a rise in youths congregating in the centre who are in possession of alcohol and “causing a nuisance”.

Operation Staysafe, previously launched to tackle ASB, is running in the community.

A Durham Police spokesperson said: "Anyone who is found to be causing an issue or in possession of alcohol will be dealt with robustly.

"This may include being issued with a direction to disperse, referrals made to social services, parents issued with warnings and community protection warnings issued preventing individuals from being in Sedgefield at certain times.

"Children found in possession of alcohol will be removed to a place of safety and parents will be required to collect them and speak with the police sergeant or inspector.”