A PROJECT aimed at cutting crime is looking back on a successful first year.

The Anti-Social Behaviour Unit was set up 12 months ago by Easington District Council and Durham Police.

It has issued 570 warnings, successfully applied for eight anti-social behaviour orders and secured nine acceptable behaviour contracts in an attempt to reduce nuisance crime in east Durham.

Andy Bailey, the council's anti-social behaviour officer, said: "We are very pleased with the unit's successes.

"Our aim is to ensure anti-social behaviour in the district is reduced and we are working hard in the community to ensure that this happens."

The unit has tackled the problem of under-age drinking with the help of local youngsters.

Code-named Operation Crux, it has led to the prosecution of six off-licensees for selling alcohol to under 18s after young people reported them to the police.

An investigation, in partnership with trading standards officers, into shop owners and members of the public selling fireworks to young people without a licence is continuing.

A £50,000 youth scheme called Our House is due to start next month in Easington Colliery to provide a safe meeting place for young people.

There are also plans to develop 12 skate parks in Seaham, Easington Colliery, South Hetton and Shotton Hall, in Peterlee.