POLICE in Chester-le-Street are urging people to help them tackle under-age drinking.

They are concerned following a spate of incidents in the area in which under-18s got drunk and put themselves at risk of harm.

Last Friday (January 9) officers from the town’s Neighbourhood Police Team were called to reports of three intoxicated teenage girls falling into the road.

The youngsters were taken home to their parents by the officers.

A spokesman for the town’s police said: “Many teenagers have been found in this state in Chester-le-Street and have been taken home.

“It's not hard to see how easy they could come to harm.

“Intelligence suggests older males and females are purchasing alcohol on their behalf.

“This is an offence and, if caught, you will be given a £90 fixed penalty notice.”

He also urged parents to ensure that their children are safe.

Anyone with information about people buying drink for under-age youngsters is urged to contact police.

They should call the non-emergency number, 101 and can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.