SCHOOL leavers are being warned against alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour as they celebrate the end of their school days later this month.

Agencies including Darlington Borough Council’s anti-social behaviour team, the drug and alcohol team, police, schools, licensing, youth workers are working together on Operation Staysafe, which will take place on Friday, May 24.

In the run-up to the operation, letters will be sent to alcohol licensees around the town warning them of the consequences of selling to underage drinkers.

Work will also be carried out in schools to talk to pupils about the dangers of drinking excessive alcohol. Some schools will also be sending out letters to parents in the lead up to leavers’ day.

Representatives from all the involved organisations will be out in force on May 24 from early afternoon hoping to prevent young people from getting drunk.

They will be talking to young people and trying to divert them away from alcohol fuelled anti-social behaviour to more constructive activities.

Anyone found to be drunk will be taken to a safe place where their parents will be contacted to collect them.

Council leader Bill Dixon said: “We understand the young people will want to celebrate leaving school but drinking too much can be dangerous for your health and personal safety and can often lead to anti-social behaviour.

“This time last year several young people required hospital treatment because of excessive drinking and we don't want a repeat of that this year.

“Intoxicated groups of young people or any form of anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.”

Anyone affected by anti-social behaviour, can contact the council’s ASB team in confidence on 01325-346831 or Darlington Police on 101.