The video will start in 8 Cancel

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest Northumberland news Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Youths are making people’s lives a misery in a Northumberland town - by taking advantage of free Wi-Fi.

Unruly youngsters have been spotted loitering around Ashington’s leisure centre, McDonald’s and Asda connecting their phones to the internet and “causing a nuisance”.

And police have increased patrols after three teenage girls were arrested and released under investigation in connection with an attempted assault.

A further three were issued with dispersal notices and another 19 youths have been identified for causing anti-social behaviour.

Sergeant Mick Aspey, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is an example of us taking a robust approach to anti-social behaviour in Ashington.

“All those identified can expect a visit to their parents from the neighbourhood police team, who will be looking into enrolling them into the Early Help Scheme through the Youth Offending Service.

“The issues we were having there caused a lot of distress for local residents in the area.

“However, neighbourhood officers covering the area have been very proactive and adopted a zero tolerance approach to large groups of teenagers gathering in the town centre.

“Together with the local authority, local businesses and residents we can ensure Ashington is a safer place to live and work.”

Town councillor Bob Walkinshaw welcomed the crackdown on anti-social behaviour by police.

He said: “We’ve been aware there has been youths hanging around the leisure centre causing a nuisance. It is a concern but I’m quite happy with what the police are doing.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Dame Vera Baird QC, praised the force for tackling issues which are having a “negative impact” on the community.

She said: “I will continue calling for tough and effective action to be taken against those who are responsible for trouble and disorder - it’s not welcome and won’t be tolerated.”

To report issues of anti-social behaviour, call Northumbria Police 101 or visit www.northumbria.police.uk/contact .