POLICE in County Durham have launched a crackdown on crime in the run-up to Christmas.

Operation Bullseye will target drug dealers, robbers, burglars, thieves and yobs caught up in town centre disturbances.

Detective Superintendent Ian Scott, head of the county's CID, said intelligence on crime hotspots and persistent offenders would underpin the 18-day crackdown.

"A lot of information has already been collected in preparation for the start of the operation," he said.

"We are determined to succeed against criminals who have been identified through intelligence."

Drug dealing will be a priority in each of the county's six divisions, but crimes that are problems to particular areas will also be tackled.

In Derwentside, special tactics will be used to combat the threat of post office robberies, teatime burglaries, and town centre disorder.

The Chester-le-Street and Durham division is cracking down on vehicle crime and violence.

High visibility patrols will tour Durham City centre to deter troublemakers.

In east Durham, officers will be targeting dealers and highlighting the dangers of drug use.