Gangs of up to 100 teenagers wandering the streets, police told

Police say they had reports of up to 100 youths wandering the streets in the West End of the town on Wednesday evening.

Insp John Zissler, of Darlington Police, said in one incident two boys, aged 14 and 19, were attacked in Stanhope Park after being confronted by a gang of 30 boys and girls.

Both were beaten, but only one required hospital treatment for a large swelling under his right eye.

Police want to speak to four individuals in particular, for whom they have been given names. They are three 15-year-old boys and a 17-year-old.

The assault has led to a warning that police will come down hard on anyone taking part in similar incidents of disorder.

"We would certainly encourage young people being outside, enjoying themselves in weather such as this, but to gather in such large groups can appear intimidating to local residents," Insp Zissler said.

"We certainly will not accept groups, even if it is only a minority of them, causing either criminal damage, anti-social behaviour, and on this occasion an assault. We are looking for any witnesses to come forward and we will be looking to make arrests if possible."

The incident may have had an element of pre-planning, police believe.

"There is a possibility that this was an arranged fight between different groups," Insp Zissler said. "I saw in excess of 30 youths in the Swinburne Road, Fife Road and Abbey Road area. Earlier, we had a report of 100 youths heading towards The Denes from Salisbury Terrace. It could be that they have then moved across and headed towards Stanhope Park."

Insp Zissler said police had received a number of calls from concerned members of the public throughout yesterday evening, and he sought to allay their fears.

"Police will take serious action against youths who are causing annoyance in this way, roaming the streets in such large numbers and causing concern to local residents," he said.

Anyone with information is asked to call 0345-6060365.