RESIDENTS in Middlesbrough have been given a dedicated hotline number to help rid the streets of youths running rampage.

The Home Office It's Your Call campaign will make it easier for people to report anti-social behaviour.

The number - 0845 605 2222 - should help people who want to tackle the problem, but don't know who to report incidents too.

Mayor Ray Mallon said: "We can reduce crime, but we cannot reduce the fear of crime unless we reduce anti-social behaviour. The phone line gives us that extra facility."

Middlesbrough is one of only 25 areas in the country to be selected for the scheme.

Chief Superintendent Mark Braithwaite said: "Alongside the council, we are doing a tremendous amount of work to tackle anti-social behaviour."

The council was chosen because of its Beacon Council status in tackling crime and disorder.

Councillor Barry Coppinger, executive member with responsibility for community safety issues, said: "The actionline enables residents to play a part and have a say in how crime and disorder is tackled."

Calls will be directed to the council's enforcement team, which will take action to fight anti-social behaviour.

Home Office Minister Hazel Blears said: "We have made significant progress in tackling anti-social behaviour and reclaiming our communities for the law-abiding majority.

"We have brought in tough new laws and an ambitious national action plan - providing the tools and the expertise for police and local agencies to tackle the yobbish minority who can blight communities and make people's lives hell."

Advertising promoting the actionline number will be displayed throughout the town.

Feedback cards that explain what action has been taken on specific issues will be delivered to homes in the affected area.