A crackdown on under-age drinkers has produced a marked difference in anti-social behaviour.

Under Operation Hammer, Cleveland Police have been targeting hot spot areas and confiscating alcohol from youngsters.

Officers are now warning adults if they buy or sell drink to children in east Cleveland they risk an £80 fine.

PC Jeff Ingledew said: "We have numerous bottles of wine, lager, alco-pops, cider and beer which have been confiscated from youngsters hanging around in groups - particularly at weekends - which we will be destroying.

"There has been a marked improvement in incidents of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage since Operation Hammer started in October, but we still need the parents and retailers to come on board with our crackdown.

"In many instances, we have come across adults buying drink and taking it outside for others under the age of 18. They are risking an £80 fine for this and we will be taking action against anyone who is caught. Similarly, any retailer found selling alcohol to youths will also receive an £80 fine and we will pursue action through the courts and have their licence revoked."