BOTTLES and cans seized in a crackdown on open-air drinking in a North-East town will be put to good use.

Police who have confiscated hundreds of bottle cans since the centre of Willington became an alcohol free zone in February, have given some of their haul to a team of young footballers to use as raffle prizes.

Greater Willington Town Council and the town’s MP Hilary Armstrong called for the order following complaints about youths causing a nuisance by drinking on the newly restored green and in the High Street.

Council chairman Brian Myers said yesterday the order had proved a huge success.

He said: "The Police Community Support Officers have told be that it has made a big difference and they are the people who should know.

"The only down side is that it has pushed the problem away from the town centre to other areas but that is something we will tackle."

Neighbourhood inspector Tony Avery said that officers were pleased to see confiscated alcohol helping local organisations.

He said: "Very often drink that is seizes on the street is poured down the drain, but on this occasion the chance to help a youth football team was the kind of bonus that is irresistible."

Paul Lauder, who runs the Willington Under 9 Blues with his wife Julie, said they were grateful for the gifts.