A PURGE on 'boy racers' plaguing residents in Chester-le-Street will carry on after scoring its first success.

Police have pledged to continue targeting motorists and their passengers who congregate in parking areas and race about, revving engines and playing loud music.

It follows the first successful prosecution of three young men charged under legislation enacted by the district council and backed by the police to curtail the activities of the 'boy racers', making an offence of any form of anti-social behaviour or disorderly conduct associated with the driver of a vehicle.

Its first 'victims' - aged 20, 21 and 22 and all from the Gateshead area - were fined a total of £175 with £115 costs.

Insp Dave Marshall said: "We have always recognised the upset and annoyance that these young people have caused and we have worked hard with he council to eradicate the problem. On many occasions we have appealed to these youths not to congregate in the town but they have ignored our requests.

"They must now understand they face prosecution every time they gather."

Elderly residents of St Mary's Nursing Home, in Church Chare, are among those who have suffered.

Manager Maureen Garrett said: "Residents have complained that they have been unable to sleep or have lost sleep because of the noise..''