Around 1,700 criminals aged between 10 and 17 have been put on the strict tagging and curfew scheme and almost half have stayed out of trouble.

The scheme, the Intensive Supervision and Surveillance Programme (ISSP) also encourages youths with alcohol problems to get a job or go back to school.

It is run by Northumberland Youth Offending Service and the council.

But organisers are keen to stress that ISSP is not a soft option and works because young law breakers are forced to face up to the consequences of their crimes.

Paying back the community

Head of crime reduction Carol Long said: "Often young people don't realise how upsetting their actions can be - but those who think it is a soft option are in for a shock.

"We had one youngster who smashed a community centre window and wrecked the children's Christmas artwork.

"He was really sorry when he realised what he had done and apologised to the children."

The scheme was introduced two years ago after research carried out by the council revealed people thought youth disorder was affecting their quality of life.

Ms Long added: "Sometimes we look at the youngster paying back the community like washing off graffiti."