A TOWN is determined to take steps to stamp out anti-social behaviour which is plaguing its streets.

Two public meetings have been held in Willington following spates of vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

This week, Wear Valley Street Wardens, representatives from environmental agency Groundwork and various community group representatives joined residents and police to try and come up with a solution to the problem.

One woman, who did not wish to be named, said: "There is nothing for the kids to do in Willington. All they seem to want is somewhere to go and sit and chat."

Sergeant Dave Ashton, community officer for Willington, said that anti-social behaviour was being taken very seriously and that was evident by the number of agencies - including youth workers and council representatives - who had given up their free time to come along to two public meetings.

He said: "The police have been working hard since July, when a number of shop windows were smashed over two weekends. Regular patrols have contributed to 22 arrests of individuals for offences such as being drunk and disorderly, criminal damage and public order.

"We have also identified six ringleaders who are currently being targeted for anti-social behaviour contracts."

He said it was essential that more residents reported anti-social behaviour to reduce the problem.