Moves to tackle gangs problem

The problem reached a head last week when the convenience store at Middleton St George, near Darlington, was forced to shut because of rowdy youths outside.

Councillors, police and residents are aware of the growing issue of anti-social behaviour in the village and many want to see it tackled.

District and parish councillor Doris Jones said: "It is the fear that these gangs of youths put into people. It stops people feeling safe in their own village.

"The sad thing is that all these youngsters are wandering around with no direction and good kids are getting into crowds with bad kids. It is quite worrying really."

Last week a group of youths congregated outside the village's Londis store, stopping customers from getting in and forcing the shop to close early.

Coun Jones believes the root of the problem is alcohol. She said the village playing fields were littered with empty beer cans and bottles last weekend.

"It is very sad considering the amount of money that has been spent in the village over the past 18 months to set up the playing fields for the kids. It cost around £56,000," she said.

The issue was addressed at a Middleton St George parish council meeting this week, which was attended by local beat officer PC Boyd Rowe, of Darlington Police.

PC Rowe said anti-social behaviour was not uncommon in Darlington and surrounding areas, but said it was being tackled with a number of initiatives. These include the Blitz Bus which is run by Darlington Borough Council.

The bus provides a meeting place for people aged 11 to 25 where they can get advice about sexual health, drugs and alcohol, debt problems and welfare.

Last month, eight cases of youths causing annoyance in Middleton St George were reported to the police, with many more believed to have passed unreported.

PC Boyd said: "The kids that were dealt with were taken back to their homes where we explain the circumstances to their parents. The kids concerned are suitably embarrassed."