Police will focus on known hot spot areas like parks

Operation Childsafe is a joint initiative with North Tyneside Council and targets underage youngsters who gather in public places to drink.

Northumbria Police began focusing on areas of North Shields, Whitley Bay, Wallsend and Killingworth on Monday.

Their attention will be on known hot spots, like streets, parks and the Metro system.

Sgt David Foy of Northumbria Police said: "Alcohol misuse is often at the heart of youth disorder.

"Through this operation police in North Tyneside are targeting underage drinkers in the streets and parks.

"By returning them home to their parents we reduce the risk of their committing or becoming the victims of crime.

"Those who persist in street drinking will be made subject of Acceptable Behaviour Agreements and ultimately Anti-Social Behaviour Orders."