A TEAM of special constables in Darlington has completed an operation aimed at cracking down on shopkeepers selling alcohol to children.

Officers recruited teenagers to visit 25 Darlington shops undercover to try to buy alcohol as part of Operation Needlepoint.

The youngsters, who were chosen because they would not be recognised in Darlington and were all under the legal age to buy alcohol, were sold it in two of the shops they visited.

To support the young buyers, special constables mounted high-visibility street patrols in the areas of Darlington they were targeting, to dissuade youngsters from trying to buy alcohol and to catch shops that sold it.

Divisional Officer Dave Dean said: "We ran Operation Needlepoint to tackle the perennial problem of unruly youths impacting on the quality of life of locals. Often these youths are under the influence of alcohol.

"I am encouraged to note that of the 25 stores we visited, only two provided a positive test purchase.

"This means that licensees are getting the message and ensuring that all their staff are aware of the law regarding the sale of alcohol to youths under 18.

"However, we will continue to identify those unscrupulous vendors who abuse their position.

"This vigilance needs to be ongoing if we are to impact on the anti-social behaviour of these youths."

The specials are looking for volunteers to join them on the beat in Darlington.

The volunteer officers have become a valued part of Darlington police, involved in everything from domestic disturbances and assaults to serious motoring incidents and night-time patrols.

Divisional Officer Dean said: "We are looking for people with common sense who can communicate with people. We want people who are prepared to be involved with the community and resolve issues.

"Specials are integrated into the work of the regular police force and very often Special Constables can be the first person onto the scene of an incident."

For information about becoming a special constable contact Dave Dean on (01325) 742176.