Crackdown on 'dangerous' youths targeting buses

An operation has been launched to crackdown on youngsters throwing stones and other objects at vehicles.

Middlesbrough Council said the "dangerous" attacks had been so bad in recent weeks that several buses had to be removed from service in the Park End area of the town.

Neighbourhood wardens and plain-clothed police officers have since been travelling on some buses in an attempt to identify the youths responsible, while additional CCTV has been installed to cover a play park where groups had been gathering.

The council said issues in the area had "significantly reduced" following the introduction of those steps.

A number of trouble-makers have been identified, it added, with council officers visiting their homes to speak to parents.

Cleveland Police has also implemented a dispersal order in Coulby Newham to tackle a similar issue with objects being thrown at vehicles.

Councillor Ian Blades, executive member for neighbourhoods, said: "This is stupid, dangerous behaviour that not only causes damage but can put lives at risk."

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