A MAJOR crackdown on anti-social behaviour was launched in Cleveland this week.

The scheme, spearheaded by police, Redcar and Cleveland council and other agencies, concentrates on stopping would-be troublemakers in their tracks before they become a real nuisance to the community.

The Acceptable Behaviour Campaign will use intelligence-led policing to identify and confront the youngsters who are cause for concern.

It will also ensure parents take more responsibility for the actions of their children.

Langbaurgh district commanderChief Supt John Kelly said: "Young people generally behave responsibly. However, those who persist in irresponsible behaviour need to be dealt with.

"The softly-softly approach is not working.

"By working in partnership with other agencies we hope to increase our effectiveness in dealing with hooligans.

"We will have a tenacious drive against anti-social behaviour which will improve quality of life for residents."

Sgt Dave Lister, local authority liaison officer, said: "Anti-social behaviour is the biggest problem in our communities."

Throughout the Langbaurgh district, more than 11,000 incidents - almost a quarter of calls answered by police - were for anti-social or nuisance behaviour.

Few are 'recordable' crimes, but many require follow-ups by officers which can go on for months.

Redcar and Cleveland council's lead member for community safety Coun Dave McLuckie said: "Every councillor meets residents who complain about anti-social behaviour.

"We know it is important to the community and we are pleased to work with the police in trying to make a difference.

"Under the partnership, parents will be told their child is causing trouble and they need to bring their parental responsibilities to bear."

Under Operation ABC, a letter will be sent to the home of youngsters warned about their behaviour.

It will tell parents that repeated behaviour will result in various partners in the scheme - such as housing providers and schools - being informed.

If trouble is repeated within six months, a second letter will be sent outlining the possible repercussions that could follow.

The letter will be delivered by police and the housing provider or another partner as an effective way of drumming home the message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.

If misbehaving continues, a multi-agency conference will be held. Action could range from criminal prosecution to evictions, school detentions, suspensions or exclusions, anti-social behaviour orders and parenting orders.