A CHRISTMAS crackdown on town centre crime in Gateshead has been hailed a success.

Operation Hamper resulted in a 10.1 per cent fall in crime compared to December 1999, while detection rates rose by 5.8 per cent, according to the Gateshead East Area Command.

The operation, which involved police and the borough council working together, led to 40 arrests and the recovery of £4,000-worth of stolen goods.

Education welfare officers also took part to combat truancy, and 28 children found out of school were spoken to.

The operation was run for the first time in 1999, when crime fell by 18 per cent.

Police said the increased presence of uniformed officers in the town centre was welcomed by shoppers and shops, their workers and security staff.

PC Alan Bell, who was acting sergeant during the operation, said: "This was very much a partnership approach between ourselves, the local authority, shopkeepers and security staff in the town centre.

"We have worked together to help reduce crime and reassure members of the public.

"It is always a difficult period over Christmas and we are more than pleased with the results."