Following reports of teenage tearaways racing up and down Front Street, in Chester-le-Street, police have warned they are about to get tough.
Inspector Dave Marshall, of Chester-le-Street police, said they would use legislation brought in three years ago to tackle this type of street menace.
At that time, police worked with the district council to draw up the Chester-le-Street (off street parking places) Order 1999.
This makes it an offence to race in car parks, sound car horns or annoy residents with loud noises or music.
Insp Marshall said: "We will address this problem through our cameras and street patrols.
"My message to the public would be to please contact us when these people cause a nuisance. My message to boy racers is if they come to Chester-le-Street causing a nuisance they will be prosecuted."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article