A MAJOR campaign aimed at stamping out underage drinking in Darlington has been launched.

From today, hundreds of licensed premises across the borough will challenge anyone who looks under 21 to prove their age.

Customers will need to produce identification which shows they are over the legal drinking age of 18, using a photo driving licence, passport or official proof of age card.

The campaign - Challenge 21 - has been launched by Durham Police, Darlington Borough Council, the British Beer and Pub Association, and has the backing of the town's MP, Alan Milburn.

"It's important that people who buy alcohol are legally entitled to it," said Mr Milburn. "I have had a host of complaints over recent months about underage drinking.

"The vast majority of shops and pubs would never contemplate selling alcohol to youngsters, but a small minority obviously do.

"I hope this scheme will help tackle the problem."

Officers from Durham Police's licensing unit wrote to more than 250 licence-holders in October to ask for their support.

An overwhelming majority replied to say they were fully behind the campaign, funded by the local crime reduction partnership.

Sergeant Tim Kelly said: "Underage drinking is a major issue in nearly all towns and cities and, unfortunately, Darlington is no exception.

"We are not pretending this agreement will solve the problem overnight, but it will give licensees and their staff more confidence to challenge those they suspect are below the legal age."

Stephen Harker, Darlington council's cabinet member for consumer and environmental services, said: "This is the latest in a range of initiatives to reduce underage drinking.

"Challenge 21 should make it common practice for licensees to ask for ID if they have any doubts about the age of a drinker."

Lee Le Clerq, regional secretary for the British Beer and Pub Association, said: "We are delighted to support Durham Police in reducing alcohol sales to those who are underage."