DOZENS of youngsters can look forward to a fun-packed summer thanks to local police.

Officers from Bishop Auckland police station will team up with professional sports coaches to repeat last year's Summer of Sport scheme.

Last year, youngsters from Coundon and Leeholme took part in more than 1,200 hours of activities during the six- week school holidays.

During that period, the number of complaints received by police about anti-social behaviour fell dramatically.

Acting Sergeant Martin Willis said: "We received hardly any reports of disturbances or anti-social behaviour in the area all summer, when rates often rise slightly.

"Youngsters have approached officers in the street asking us to get it up and running again.

"That, along with the very positive effect it had on cases of disorder, gives us reason to repeat the scheme."

This year's Summer of Sport events will include basketball, rugby, football, tennis, and a trip to Newcastle United's St James' Park.

Youngsters from Binchester and Newholme will be able to join in this year, and police hope to add activities including dancing and cycling proficiency.

Acting Sgt Willis said: "I am thrilled we have secured funds from several sources, including One NorthEast and Wear Valley District Council, and support from clubs to run activities."

Nine to 15-year-olds who joined the scheme last year were excited to hear they could take part over the next two months.

Coundon Primary School pupil Paul Lumley, ten, said: "I enjoyed all of the games, especially tag rugby and a trip to see Newcastle Falcons."

Kyle Stephenson, ten, said: "The basketball was great because we got to play with coaches who actually train Newcastle Eagles."

Sammy-Joe Crabtree, 11, said: "I liked getting to meet kids from other schools best."

Headteacher of St Joseph's RC Primary School, Stepha McManners, said she was also delighted with the news.

She said: "These structured activities are great to help build youngsters' discipline and social skills, keeps them fit and benefits the whole community."

Pupil Martin Bowtell, 11, said: "If this wasn't arranged I would probably just hang around the streets, watch television or play computer games, which would soon get boring.