POLICE have hailed a festive operation to cut crime and anti-social behaviour in a town centre as a success.

Officers in Newton Aycliffe say retailers in the town have seen a reduction in the number of incidents they would expect in the holiday season.

Extra police were drafted in to increase foot patrols around the town centre and shopping areas, and neighbourhood wardens supported the campaign.

Beat officer, PC Helen Young, said the increased police presence helped prevent crime and anti-social behaviour by deterring offenders and offering safety advice.

She said: "The Shopwatch Link radio system has worked effectively as an early warning system for retailers, who liaise with police to identify offenders at the earliest possible opportunity.

"The number of incidents were kept low and positive action was taken against offenders."

Over the festive period, there were seven thefts and 13 reports of anti-social behaviour, mainly youths drinking alcohol and causing annoyance to residents.

Investigations are ongoing in each case.