TROUBLEMAKERS have been warned they face criminal action following a spate of anti-social behaviour in a town.

Northumbria Police is cracking down on youth disorder after reports of a number of incidents across Ryton, near Gateshead.

Groups of youths reportedly caused damage to a number of windows at addresses on Runhead Estate, Dunlin Close, and Crookhill Community Centre last weekend.

Officers said such disorder will not be tolerated and anyone found to be involved will be dealt with robustly.

PC Andy Hyde said: “We understand the significant and long-lasting impact that the anti-social actions of a minority can have within the community.

“We want to reassure the public that this behaviour won’t be tolerated and we will continue to take robust action against anybody found to be involved in incidents such as these.

“We would always encourage anybody who sees anti-social behaviour in their area to get in touch with us and report it as soon as possible.”

The Northern Echo:

Fiona Todd, who is a volunteer at the Crookhill Community centre, said the considerable damage caused to the windows would have a ‘big impact.’

She said: “We are all volunteers at the centre. It is the hub of our community and people of all ages come here to have fun, socialise with friends and make a difference in the area in which we live.

“This week has been very hard for us, given we have had to close our doors to the public because of Coronavirus, but, this damage will also hugely impact on us – we are now looking at putting grills on all windows.

“The money used to fund these grills would have ideally been spent on the groups, to provide entertainment at our fairs or children's Christmas parties in the future.

“It is really devastating that reckless vandals have done this at such a difficult time for everyone.”

Officers will be on patrol this weekend and incidents can be reported via Northumbria Police's website.