POLICE in Darlington have pledged to take strong action after receiving complaints from residents about drunken youths causing mayhem.

The promise comes after a series of alarming incidents involving fireworks being let off, under-age drinking and anti-social behaviour by groups of teenagers.

Gangs of up to 80 youngsters are said to have been congregating in the Springfield Park area, with several off-licences suspected of selling alcohol to people under 18.

Residents have reported finding damage to the children's play area and litter - usually empty bottles and cans - left behind after the teenagers have moved on.

Police have also been called to deal with cases of the misuse of fireworks in the run-up to Bonfire Night.

One youth was found standing in a street on the Firthmoor estate with a lighted firework at arm's length. Rockets have also been set off from a green on Darlington golf course.

Last year, there was a 20 per cent rise in calls regarding youths being involved in nuisance behaviour in the weeks before November.

Senior police officers say they do not want a repeat of that statistic this time.

Inspector Paul Unsworth said: "It is fair to say that not all young people drink in public places and the great majority of those we come into contact with are causing no real problems.

"They are guilty only of hanging out with their friends and enjoying themselves.

"However, a small but significant minority go out drinking, get together in large groups and become a cause for concern. Their behaviour can then intimidate local residents and seriously affect their quality of life."

Police are now working with local councillors and residents' groups to identify the main problem areas.

Extra patrols by officers, community wardens and special constables will then target the worst-affected areas.

Police will also closely monitor off-licences and will prosecute anyone caught selling alcohol to people who are under-age.

Insp Unsworth said: "There is also a need for parents to be more aware of where their children are on an evening and what they are doing."