The parents of a 12-year-old boy took him to court for criminal damage in an attempt to get help.

Darlington Youth Court heard yesterday how the youth's behaviour had spiralled out of control to such an extent that his parents felt they had no option but to call the police and prosecute.

The court heard that the boy, from the North Road area of Darlington, who cannot be named for legal reasons, had turned aggressive with his mother when she refused to give him money.

A row ensued between the two, escalating to a tug-of-war over her handbag and resulting in the strap of the bag breaking.

He then damaged a pottery money box in an attempt to find money.

David Bryson, prosecuting, said: "This is not a compensation case. This is an unfortunate case in every way."

The court heard how the boy had been causing growing problems for his parents and his school.

Although they did not want to resort to court action, they felt they had no alternative.

Senior Youth Offending Officer Jo Benson recommended that the boy be placed on a referral order to work with the youth offending team.

She said: "There are concerns about his behaviour, his attitude and his lack of understanding with regard to his behaviour. I think this a person who could do with quite a lot of input, I think for his parents' sake, as well as his."

Chairwoman of the bench Aileen Little ordered the boy be placed on a six-month referral order.