A year ago, the Cleveland force faced a �7m deficit, prompting a raft of cost-cutting measures and a government grant of �6m.

Now the force says it plans to invest �1m to tackle violent crime and anti-social behaviour.

The cash will fund a range of special operations in the area.

A spokesman for Cleveland Police Authority said: "It was reported to the authority recently that our financial position had hugely improved from the position not so long ago when we had to tackle a potential multi-million pound black hole.

'Excellent news'

"So much so that we have a considerable surplus on our budget. We decided that a top priority was to use some of the money to provide an immediate shot in the arm to those areas of crime causing most concern, including drink-related violence and anti-social behaviour."

Chief Constable Sean Price said: "Cleveland Police has made significant progress over the past two years, both financially and operationally, and it is excellent news that the public can now reap the rewards in this way.

"This investment sends out a clear message that ourselves and the authority regard such behaviour as unacceptable and we are determined to bring to justice anyone engaging in such activity.

"It is especially important that we have the resources to tackle this issue as we move towards the introduction of new licensing arrangements next month."