Police use dogs in town patrols

Police officers are to patrol a busy Tyneside town centre with dogs in an effort to combat late-night rowdiness.

Northumbria Police say the move is in response to a "small number" of people who drink excessively and resort to anti-social behaviour in South Shields.

The force says the police dog and handler will be there to defuse high spirits that may develop into disorder.

Police dogs are routinely used for searches and dealing with large crowds and demonstrations.

Insp Clare Langley, of Northumbria Police said: "The vast majority of our visitors to South Shields town centre are well behaved.

"But on occasion we do have a small number of people who, after drinking excessively, resort to anti-social behaviour and assault. Northumbria Police will not tolerate such behaviour.

"Our police dogs are highly trained and very effective. Just having the dog close at hand, will remind people to enjoy themselves without causing trouble."