Ten officers from Northumbria Police will tackle youth disorder in the South Tyneside command area this week.

The Disorder Reduction Team will use intelligence and visit people living in the area to find out what problems they face.

The information will be used to build up evidence to obtain Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (Asbo) against persistent offenders.

Youth disorder is not just a local problem, it is undoubtedly a major problem affecting the quality of lives of many people Chief Inspector Nick Eley

The area command currently has four Asbo's out against persistent offenders.

Chief Inspector Nick Eley told BBC Newcastle: " This is not just another crime team but is specifically aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour.

" We want a much more comprehensive approach to tackle this issue and by mixing uniformed officers with detectives and a licensing officer, we hope to achieve this.

"Youth disorder is not just a local problem, it is undoubtedly a major problem affecting the quality of lives of many people.

"This unit is a solution, using not only enforcement but education as well, to improve the quality of life locally."

A large element of the team's work will also be in community conferencing - a way of resolving disputes before they reach court.

The team will work from offices in Boldon.