NEW technology is being used to tackle a rise in anti-social behaviour in two areas of Darlington.

Residents of Branksome and Cockerton say gangs of youths are causing havoc by harassing old people, drinking alcohol in the street and throwing stones at passing vehicles.

They put their concerns to the town's MP, Alan Milburn, during his Big Conversation at St Andrew's Church, in Haughton, last week.

At the weekend, Darlington Borough Council's uniformed wardens responded by taking to the streets of the two areas wearing hats in which video cameras were concealed.

The cameras were used to record anti-social behaviour, which was then played back to those causing trouble.

A council spokeswoman said: "The new 'hat-cam' technology was put to good use as part of a joint uniformed warden and police operation.

"The wardens were called to incidences of anti-social behaviour and used the 'hat-cam' to record events including under-age drinking.

"Youths were advised they were being filmed by wardens and this was reported to have a positive impact on reducing anti-social behaviour."

Branksome resident Kevin Gallagher, 39, said a continued police presence was needed to tackle the estate's problems.

He said: "It is getting worse and these kids have no respect for anyone who lives on the estate. Sometimes there are as many as 50 kids roaming around from aged 11 upwards.

"They throw rocks at cars, kick cars as they drive past and harass old people.

"I have had my work vehicle hit with a brick 11 times. Outside the shops in Whitby Way is a nightmare."

Ward councillor Cliff Hutchinson said: "It has got worse and we are going to have to really address it.

"I say to residents 'don't go out and tackle them. Pick up the phone and call the police and the wardens'."

Other measures being taken to tackle anti-social behaviour in Cockerton and Branksome include:

* Police officers working with schools to educate young people;

* Uniformed wardens visiting off-licences to remind shopkeepers not to sell alcohol to those under 18;

* The opening of a youth pod at Beck House to provide youngsters with a place to meet on Friday and Saturday evenings.

The "hat-cam" initiative is to be used in anti-social hot spots across the borough.