A TEENAGE tearaway has been ordered by a court to behave himself - or face custody.

Andrew Lee Linton, 15, of Parrington Place, Lazenby, was made the subject of a three-year anti-social behaviour order (Asbo) when he appeared before Teesside Magistrates yesterday.

Chairman of the bench James Storey ruled that in the public interest, the teenager should be named - and to make the local community aware so his behaviour could be monitored.

Linton is prohibited from causing harassment, alarm or distress to people; inciting or encouraging others to do so; prohibited from meeting in a group of three or more, from interfering with the operations of the police, community support wardens, community police support officers and from drawing graffiti on private or public property.

David Dedman, mitigating, told magistrates it was a credit to Linton that he had agreed to the terms of the order.

"It shows Andrew acknowledges at least some of his behaviour has caused problems to people within his community," Mr Dedman said. "The fact he agrees with this is a positive sign.''

Mr Storey told Linton: "I hope you fully understand what we have said in relation to your behaviour and what are the consequences, if you do not.''

Linton and his mother refused to comment as they left court.

He could face custody if he breaches the order.

Joyce Benbow, community safety councillor with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, which applied for the order, said after the hearing: "We are particularly pleased to see a full Asbo served on this persistent young offender.

"He has been a troublemaker in a gang in the Grangetown and Eston areas for over two years, causing lots of problems for residents.

"His long list of offences includes throwing stones and mud at elderly people's windows and causing deliberate criminal damage to property.

"The Asbo has been achieved by agreement with him and his solicitor and we hope he will see this as an opportunity for him to mend his ways and grow up.''

PC Claire Hornsby, of Cleveland Police, said: "A lot of residents, who are the real victims of anti-social behaviour, are not willing to provide statements because they are in fear, and this sends a clear message that we will take action to support members of the community and to deal with wrongdoers.''