A YOUTH has been banned from entering a housing estate following evidence that he harassed residents.

Shane Philip Preston, of Salisbury Terrace, Darlington, has been banned from entering Skerne Park in the town because of his behaviour.

The 14-year-old was made subject of an anti-social behaviour order when he appeared at Bishop Auckland Magistrates yesterday.

It states he is forbidden from assaulting, harassing, intimidating, threatening or abusing any person, trespassing on private property, riding motorcycles and kicking or throwing footballs or other objects against any property or vehicle.

Preston was also given a curfew, which means that he must be at his home address between 9pm and 7am.

He is not allowed to enter a large area of Darlington which encompasses Skerne Park.

Speaking on his behalf in court yesterday Kevin Ross said that he felt it would be harsh to stop Preston from entering the estate.

Chris Southey, on behalf of Durham Police, said they were adamant that Preston should be kept away from Skerne Park because the majority of his anti-social behaviour had taken place there.

He said: "This may be disturbing for him and his mother to hear, but there are people living in fear in their own houses because of Shane Preston.''

Afterwards, Inspector Chris Reeves, from Darlington Police, said: "The police in Darlington tend to vigorously enforce these orders and trust that this will improve the quality of life of those living in Skerne Park."