Youths have been warned to stop using former County Durham pub as a playground on evenings.

Chester-le-Street Police have had a number of reports of teenagers using the partially demolished Red Lion.

They are appealing to parents to stop youths entering the site as it is "not safe" and should not be being accessed by anyone.

A Chester-le-Street Police spokesperson said: "Tonight officers have once again conducted dedicated patrols around Chester le Street, due to the ongoing issues with anti social behaviour.

(Image: Chester-le-Street Police)

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"The demolition and renovation of the old Red Lion public house has begun and has been fenced off to keep the site secure.

"We have now had a number of calls relating to youths accessing the site and using it as a ‘playground’.

"Please warn your children regarding entering this site, it is not safe and should not be being accessed by anyone."