SIX young people have been reprimanded for causing anti-social behaviour in a Teesside park.

A resident living around John Whitehead Park in Billingham saw the unruly group making a nuisance of themselves, and they were then picked up and identified on CCTV cameras nearby.

Stockton Borough Council's anti-social behaviour team contacted the perpetrators and their parents. As a result, one is to be interviewed by Cleveland Police and will be asked to sign an acceptable behaviour contract, binding him to suitable behaviour when in public.

One of the youths is on a final warning, and all have been told they are now being monitored.

If they continue to be a problem, an application will be made to the courts for an anti-social behaviour order banning them from entering the park for up to five years.

Councillor Steve Nelson, Stockton Council's cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: "We want our parks to be enjoyed by everyone and we want people to be aware that if they abuse the park, we will do all we can to identify them and take appropriate action."

The council's CCTV control room is in operation 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If residents spot any trouble, they are asked to call 01642-528989 as soon as possible.

The footage can then be used to deal with offenders, including through the courts.