UNDER-AGE drinkers on Tyneside could have a supply line cut as part of a Northumbria Police operation, in the run-up to Christmas.

Off-licences in Tynemouth Area Command are being monitored by police in an effort to reduce the supply of alcohol to under 18s.

Earlier this year, Operation Alcopop resulted in a licensee and his assistant from a shop in Monkseaton being prosecuted for supplying alcohol to under-age people.

The licensee was fined £55 and given a conditional discharge after admitting two offences. His assistant was given a conditional discharge.

Complaints from residents about rowdy behaviour at the premises, have now stopped.

The operation will target shops in the Whitley Bay, Tynemouth and North Shields areas