Anti-social behaviour crackdown

Three former mining villages in East Durham are being targeted in a campaign to tackle anti-social behaviour.

During the two-week operation police will be stepping up patrols in Horden, Hesleden and Blackhall.

They are also carrying out drugs raids, taking away abandoned cars, as well as tackling fly-tipping and graffiti.

The campaign is being run by Durham Police, the county's fire service, Customs & Excise, the DVLA and Easington Council.

Fire officers are also calling at homes fitting alarms and giving fire safety advice during the campaign.

Insp Paul Harrison, of Durham Police said: "These operations provide the opportunity to engage in more proactive tasks and by working in partnership we can more effectively address the concerns of the local community, as well as enabling us to tackle criminal activities and environmental issues."