TEENAGE troublemakers are being warned that anybody involved in anti-social behaviour ultimately faces spending the Christmas period in police custody.

The warning follows disorder reported last weekend involving large groups of teenagers congregating on Southport Parade in Hebburn, South Tyneside.

It is believed that the youths from outside the area had agreed to descend at the location for a pre-arranged fight.

Police attended and the group dispersed.

Sergeant Claire Fada, of Northumbria Police, said: “While most young people contribute positively to our communities, we acknowledge that a minority can cause problems for residents.

“My message to the community is simple: we will not tolerate anti-social behaviour, and we are working hand-in-hand with our partners to ensure anybody who brings misery to our communities is dealt with appropriately.

“Over the coming days, officers will be making contact with other young people who we suspect were involved in causing anti-social behaviour.”

“Anyone who does get involved in disorder and ignores dispersal orders could face criminal action and the prospect of spending some of the festive period in police custody.”

Anybody with concerns about anti-social behaviour in their area is asked to call 101.