POLICE are cracking down on gangs of youths in a north Durham community after a wave of anti-social behaviour.

In one of the worst nights of trouble, involving gangs of up to 40 youths, in Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, three girls were punched and kicked and a bus window smashed when a rock was thrown through it.

Community Inspector Paul Anderson said: "We know who the majority of the troublemakers are.

"When they get into packs they become feral, and having this big gang of kids hanging around the streets can be very intimidating to people.

"It is not just the boys who are causing trouble - it is the girls as well. Some of the ringleaders are girls who are involved in encouraging others to commit anti-social behaviour."

He moved to reassure residents that police were working to stop the problem.

He said: "There have been problems in Pelton over recent weeks, with up to 40 youths congregating in Front Street engaging in anti-social behaviour.

"Things got out of control last Thursday night.

"A stone was thrown through the window of a bus as it was coming along Front Street.

"And there were two assaults, with three girls suffering bruising after being punched and kicked.

"A window in the community centre was broken, as well as a number of other windows in the village.

"And there was general anti-social behaviour at the weekend, with youths making a nuisance of themselves."

He added: "We will be giving Pelton plenty of attention and are determined to stamp out the problem of anti-social behaviour.

"I would ask parents to be conscious of where their children are and what they are getting up to." Insp Anderson said officers had made arrests and he promised more would follow.

He said: "As well as dealing with the offences, we will be looking to work together with some of our partner agencies in taking further measures if necessary."

A 15-year-old girl was arrested and charged with two assaults.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police on 0845-60-60-365.