A COUNCIL has helped almost 1,000 young people keep on the right side of the law this year.

Darlington Borough Council's early intervention team has worked with 956 youths in 2004 and claims it has an 88 to 90 per cent rate of success in stopping offending or re-offending.

It has also made initial contact with 4,000 young people, which has led to a fall in the number of complaints about youths causing an annoyance.

Director of social services Councillor Margaret Asquith said: "The early intervention function of the Community Safety Partnership has been very productive this year.

"It is still seeing an increase in referrals and contacts with children, young people and their families."

Coun Asquith said she expected targets for tackling anti-social behaviour and improving the quality of life for those referred would be met.

The team deals with assertiveness, mentoring and substance misuse. It also runs a parenting programme for adults to help them control and look after their children.

The group has secured £15,000 in funding for activities in Darlington.