BUS journeys across Teesside have become more enjoyable thanks to a drive to stamp out vandalism and bad behaviour.

Stockton police community support officers have been working with Stagecoach, travelling on the buses in an attempt to combat anti-social behaviour and vandalism.

Stagecoach, with Stockton Borough Council, is also supporting CCTV on a number of buses. A spokeswoman for Stockton police said: "The initiative has been running now for a few weeks and the response from the public has been brilliant.They have been really positive and supportive."

The scheme is intended to reduce the numbers of buses which have to be taken off the roads after vandalism and also combat bad behaviour by passengers, and attacks on drivers.

If successful, the scheme could be adopted throughout Cleveland.

At the launch of the scheme a spokeswoman for Stockton council said: "We give top priority to the safety of citizens and we are delighted with the progress being made through the partnership.

"This scheme will mean those who engage in vandalism, attacks and bad behaviour will be identified and prosecuted."