DRUNKEN yobs are responsible for creating the only blip in the latest crime figures for Cleveland, according to police bosses.

With the latest crime figures for the force possibly putting it amongst the most elite in the country, officers are now turning their attention to troublesome weekend drinkers.

Chief Constable Sean Price said: "The only area of increase was violent crime, much of that resulting from alcohol-fuelled thuggery, which often leads to no or little injury."

The force is to expand Operation Tranquillity, which has successfully cut violent disorder by patrolling licensed premises in Stockton, Yarm and Tall Trees.

In a bid to help clean up the alcohol problem in Middlesbrough, a recent check on door staff resulted in 21 bouncers being summonsed to court for allegedly working without the correct licence.

Even with the increase of 17.4 per cent in violent crime, the force has enjoyed a year-on-year reduction of eight per cent in recorded crime - there have been 5,980 fewer victims across the area.

Robbery, burglary and vehicle crime figures have tumbled by 33.9, 29.7 and 19.3 percent respectively. At the same time, detection rates have increased, with 3.2 per cent more crimes being solved.

Mr Price said: "It's my strong belief that our decrease in crime will put us in the top 15 forces in the country, and the decreases in robbery and burglary will put us in the top ten in the country."

Cleveland Police Authority vice-chairman Councillor Dave McLuckie, welcomed the news, but had concerns about how the figures may be viewed.

"The figures are exceptional, when you consider the way we started the year, with overtime restrictions. With violent crime, I understand a playground bust-up can now be recorded as violent crime.

"This sends out the wrong message to the people of Cleveland. The fact is, people are now much safer. The perception is different to the position we are in."

Magistrate member Keith Fisher said: "A very good job has been done by some very good people. Cleveland is now a safer place and people are entitled to feel better about that."