Graffiti vandals are being forced to clean up or pay up

In a joint operation, police based at Killingbeck and Leeds City Council have secured an anti-social behaviour order (ASBO) and night-time curfew on a 15-year-old youth.

The ASBO against Aidan Alderson, 15, of Cross Green Avenue, bans him from parts of the city centre and areas of the Cross Green estate.

He is also prohibited from possessing a mobile phone without the owner's consent, trespassing on railway property or having solvents or illegal substances.

Two "name and shame" posters include pictures of Alan Denham, of Fewston Avenue and Gareth Tate of Cross Green Avenue have also been put up.

Police say people are encouraged to contact them if the two men are seen together.

Cleaned off

And as part of the crackdown on vandalism in the area, the homes of 35 suspected graffiti vandals have been visited by the police.

They were given the option of removing their work or paying for the paint or ink to be professionally cleaned off.

The leader of Leeds City Council, councillor Keith Wakefield said:� We won't hesitate in pursuing ASBOs against those who make trouble in our communities, nor in naming or shaming them where appropriate.

"And where we find people responsible for graffiti we will ensure they clean up the mess - or pay us to do so."

Chief Superintendent Elizabeth Preece, the divisional commander at Killingbeck police station said: "We are fully committed to reducing anti-social behaviour through prevention and vigorous enforcement.