POLICE say they are closing in on a gang of youths responsible for a disproportionate amount of crime in Darlington.

Detectives have launched Operation Harbour to capture the 12 yobs, who roam the town on stolen bicycles, robbing people, stealing from cars and committing burglaries.

Eleven of the teenagers, who are aged between 15 and 17, have been arrested by officers and some of have been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Three have been charged with a variety of offences, including thefts from vehicles, burglaries and breaching an anti-social behaviour order.

Detective Inspector Paul Harker, of Darlington CID, said most came from the east side of town - Firthmoor, Lascelles and Yarm Road - and operated mainly in the College, Eastbourne and Bank Top wards.

"We have got a lot of problems with kids on bikes robbing people, stealing from cars and breaking into houses, garages and sheds," he said.

"We have managed to identify a group of 12 who are committing a significant and disproportionate amount of offences.

"Since the beginning of the month we have really focused in on them. Members of the gang have been arrested on 22 separate occasions."

Det Insp Harker said many residents would know who the youths were and he appealed for help in gathering evidence on them.

"The kids all live in the locality and cause problems in the areas where they live," he said.

"It's a matter of trying to pull all the information we have on them together."

Since the beginning of August, 120 bicycles have been stolen in Darlington.

Det Insp Harker said: "We are not saying it is all down to them, but we think they are responsible for a lot."

Anyone who thinks they have information on the youths is asked to call CID on (01325) 467681.

* Have you had problems with thugs on bikes in Darlington? If so, call our reporters on (01325) 505073.