AN initiative aimed at stamping out under-age drinking and unruly behaviour near off-licences is launched in Newton Aycliffe tomorrow.

The town's police team has formed an Off-Licence Watch scheme, which all 13 shops selling alcohol in the area have signed up to.

Traders made a plea to police for help to rid their businesses and neighbourhoods of high levels of anti-social behaviour and nuisance crime.

They reported incidents of staff being abused, violence, shoplifting and under-age drinking on the streets, which was affecting staff morale and intimidating customers.

Young adults have been seen buying alcohol to supply under-age drinkers.

In response, Newton Aycliffe police and Sedgefield Borough Council initiated the scheme - similar to the highly successful Pub Watch - which will see known troublemakers banned from all premises taking part.

Members will meet monthly to talk about incidents and anyone found to have committed serious offences, such as theft or violence, or those who have bought alcohol for under-age youths, will be banned. Verbal and written warnings will also be served as a deterrent.

Sergeant Ed Turner, who is running the scheme, said: "Businesses suffer if people feel too intimidated to walk to the local shop, and staff shouldn't face theft and abuse. Traders will all know who is not allowed in off- licences and will enforce the rule with police backing.

"Anti-social behaviour upsets residents of the town and is often very intimidating, so it is not just about the retailers but also about the public.

"We all want to work together to show offenders that it will not be tolerated and, if they step out of line in or near one off-licence, they lose the right to shop at all off-licences in the town. It works in the pubs because people are conscious of the threat of being barred from all premises."

Residents are encouraged to contact police, anonymously if they prefer, on (01325) 314401 with names of known offenders.

The following businesses have joined the Off-Licence Watch scheme: Bell's Stores in Oakfield, Cobblers Hall, Washington Crescent and Scott Place, Hazelbank Wines, Co-op, Boozebusters, Tesco, Simpasture Post Office, Londis, Caygills Convenience, Somerfield, and Aycliffe Village Post Office.