A YOUTH branded a persistent drunken nuisance has been banned from behaving offensively by the courts.

Dean Laing, 15, of Briardale, Delves Lane, near Consett, has been made the subject of a conviction-related Anti-Social Behaviour Order (Asbo).

PC Jonathan Hamill, beat officer for Delves Lane, said: "We are absolutely delighted that the court has taken these steps.

"He has been a persistent nuisance and is widely known in the area. He would be drunk in the street and harass or intimidate people."

The order followed Laing's conviction at Consett Youth Court for making threats of criminal damage and attempted criminal damage.

Magistrates made a two-year supervision order, but further details of the case cannot be revealed for legal reasons.

The police, working with the Crown Prosecution Service, applied for the order to be made.

It works in the same way as a normal Asbo, banning Laing from a range of yobbish activities for two years.

These include being under the influence of, or possessing, intoxicating liquor, or any controlled substance, in any public street or open space.

It prohibits him from remaining on any premises after he has been asked to leave, along with damaging, taking or interfering with property belonging to others.

He is not allowed to use behaviour or gestures in public that is offensive, indecent or obscene, and must not assault, attempt to assault, harass, intimidate, threaten or abuse any person.

He is also banned from inciting others to commit any of these acts.

PC Hamill, along with PC Claire Louise Suddes and community support officer Cath Egan, spent almost a year working with Derwentside District Council, compiling the evidence needed to obtain the order.

"All our hard work has paid off," said PC Hamill.