A security system has been installed at a community centre which has been targeted by youths causing a nuisance and damaging property.

A security camera and door system at King William Street Community Centre, Darlington, will produce up to six high quality pictures of anyone causing trouble, which may be used in court as evidence.

The system has been installed by Darlington Borough Council's housing division and the Youth Offending and Community Safety service, who are trying a new approach to prosecuting people who attack community facilities.

Council leader John Williams prompted the installation after receiving complaints from concerned users of the centre.

He said: "We have been working with the neighbourhood wardens, the police and the residents of King William Street, and will continue to keep a close eye on the progress of this scheme.

"We do not have to tolerate loutish behaviour, and by working together we can find new ways of cracking down on those who spoil the quality of life here in Darlington."

PC Ian Clelland, of the Youth Offending and Community Safety service, said: "The camera will act as a deterrent and the police and the neighbourhood wardens will be patrolling to make sure the surrounding area is safe, so that problems are tackled before they affect the community centre."

The Farfs Video Door Entry System will operate in a pilot scheme at the centre for a year to assess its effectiveness as a deterrent and for use as evidence in court.