A SUCCESSFUL crime-busting initiative aimed at stamping out crime and disorder on the streets of South Tyneside is to return.

Operation Lonestar, now in its third phase, follows in the pattern of successful operations held in the area command.

Police patrols will be stepped up in certain areas, joined by other agencies to tackle the root of problems.

Chief Inspector Nick Eley said: "We aim to mirror the successful results of previous operations.