Officers on patrol, who find teenagers drinking in the city centre, will phone parents and ask them to come and collect their children.

Parents will be offered the chance to see for themselves what condition their children are in.

A West Midlands Police spokesman said underage drinkers were not only a menace, they also made themselves vulnerable to thieves and muggers.

Children as young as 12-years-old have been found drinking in the city centre, he added.

It is hoped the scheme will not only deter teenagers from getting drunk but could also lead to a reduction in vandalism, shoplifting and violence.