POLICE have vowed to deal with youths who have been intimidating customers at two supermarkets and egging cars and houses.

Officers in Crook, County Durham, received numerous complaints about youths causing issues and nuisance outside the Lidl and Aldi stores last week.

They also had reports of young people throwing eggs at cars and properties throughout the town.

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A spokesperson for Crook Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We have had numerous calls over the week of youths causing issues and nuisance outside of LIDL and ALDI in Crook.

“Crook Police team have been working hard and have identified many of those involved. “Those who have been causing these problems will be dealt with accordingly in due course.

“The behaviour that has been witnessed is unacceptable and intimidating for those trying to enter the stores.

“It has also been reported of youths egging cars and properties around the Crook area.

“Our officers have been investigating this would like anyone with any information to come forward.

“We have obtained CCTV footage of youths purchasing the eggs from one of our stores and further action will be taken in due course.”

The latest incidents of antisocial behaviour come after town residents spoke to The Northern Echo about feeling scared of groups of youths in the market town.

Last year The Northern Echo reported that gangs had set fire to trees, vandalised property and left broken glass and litter behind in parks and on streets.

Read more: Crook residents raise concerns over ‘intimidating youths’

Youth Hubs

Youths and parents are reminded that a project aimed at providing a safe place to meet and enjoy activities for 11 to 16-year-olds is now up and running in the 3Towns AAP area.

The Youth Hubs take place at Crook St. Catherine’s Centre on Mondays, from 5pm to 8pm; Tow Law Community Centre on Wednesdays, from 5pm to 8pm; and Dove Dale Community Centre in Sunnybrow, from 5pm to 8pm.

Police in Crook are also investigating complaints about an off-road bike being driven around the Willington/Sunnybrow area, specifically heading down the old lines towards Hunwick.

Anyone with information or CCTV is asked to come forward and let the Crook police team know, via its Facebook page or by contacting a local officer.

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