Teenagers face on-the-spot fines

The police scheme aims to cut anti-social behaviour

Teenagers misbehaving on the streets of Merseyside could be given on-the-spot fines of up to £80.

Police are issuing fixed penalty notices for disorder and anti-social behaviour by 16 and 17-year-olds.

Merseyside Police said the plan was cost effective by freeing up officers and cutting the burden on the courts.

Throwing fireworks or giving a false alarms to the fire brigade will warrant an £80 fine, while being drunk and disorderly will cost youths £40.

But the fixed penalty ticket will not mean the offender gets a criminal record.

Assistant Chief Constable Ian McPherson, of Merseyside Police, said officers would retain the power to charge and prosecute alleged offenders.