FISHERMEN say teenagers gathering by a river to drink and take drugs are spoiling their nighttime expeditions.

Groups of up to 50 youngsters, aged 11 to 18, meet beneath the A1(M) bridge over the River Wear at Chester-le-Street on Friday and Saturday evenings and local anglers say they face abuse and worse when they go to the river to fish.

Now the 270 members of Chester-le-Street Angling Club, who include pensioners and disabled fishermen, are now being urged to call the police to report any incidents in the hope that the police will be able to act.

Committee member Terrance McBurnie said: "It is pretty intimidating if you are going down there to fish or are just a member of the public using the right of way.

"We rent fishing waters and there are a lot of people who walk their dogs along the riverbank but when the youngsters are there it feels like a no-go area.

"When we go down there fishing they are staring to throw bottles and bricks in to the water. They are off their heads, really.

"There have been no physical attacks this year but last year an OAP was hit by a brick.

"Under the bridge is covered in graffiti and there are bottles and empty lighters.

"The police have said the youngsters are taking drugs but hide them when officers show up. ‘’ Mr McBurnie said he feared there could be a fatality with a drunk youngster falling into the river.

"There have been occasions when there are half-naked young girls lying flaked out in the bushes. An ambulance was there two weeks ago picking up a lassie who was absolutely out of it.’’ Mr McBurnie said the club was advising members to call the police on 0345 60 60 365 when anything happened. "Police say their hands are tied unless we ring in.’’ A police spokesman said: "We are not aware of any particular complaint relating to that area but if members of the club have any concern we would urge them to contact us so we can discuss what steps can be taken to address their concerns and offer reassurance.’’