POLICE stopped more than 35 teenagers and seized alcohol from many of them during following complaints about anti-social behaviour in a former pit village.

Officers went to Ouston, near Chester-le-Street, last Friday night (jan21) following complaints about youngsters drinking and intimidating residents.

Sergeant Audra Fawcett said: "We had received reports that up to 40 young people were descending on Ouston on Friday nights and their behaviour was causing residents concern.

"As well as under-age drinking they were misbehaving by intimidating local people and causing minor damage to property.

"One girl among the 30-plus youngsters we stopped on Friday night who was so drunk she couldn’t stand up and we called her parents and advised them to take her to hospital.

"Two others were taken home to their parents. Many of those we spoke to had travelled into the area from surrounding villages as far away as Derwentside."

She added: "Parents should ask themselves if they know where their child is and if they are safe.

"They should also be certain their child’s behaviour or whereabouts is not putting them in danger.

"Young people are vulnerable and at risk of harm if they become involved in anti-social behaviour, have alcohol in their possession, get drunk or become involved in crime."

Officers will continue to monitor the area and will work with Safe Durham Partnership agencies including the Durham County Council anti-social behaviour officer and local schools to tackle the problem.

Under-18s can be prosecuted and fined up to £500 if they are caught with alcohol in a public place three or more times within a 12 months under new legislation to curb youth-related drunkenness and unruly behaviour