YOUTH workers are to take to the streets to try to prevent young people becoming involved in anti-social behaviour.

Teams of youth workers wearing high visibility vests will be targeting hot spots in the Consett area on Friday and Saturday nights to help recruit those at risk of falling into a life of crime.

Consett and District YMCA is hoping to persuade young people aged 13 to 24 to swap the streets for skate parks or try out outdoor pursuits such as rock climbing, abseiling and orienteering.

Chief executive Billy Robson said: "Our activities focus on self-esteem, leadership, teamwork and a lot young people who engage with the YMCA have life-changing experiences."

The charity’s funding and monitoring manager, Sara-Jane Heslop, said: "The activities break down the bravado of young people and teach them they can get an adrenaline rush from something as simple as abseiling."

The scheme is being funded with £28,000 worth of Government money from the Tackling Knives Action Programme.

Inspector Dave Turner, of Consett Police, said: "While knife crime is not, as yet, an identified local issue, the feeder problems that can lead to involvement into the gang and knife culture clearly are and if these remain undetected and targeted, we will experience these problems in the future."

The project is also being supported by Durham County Council.

For more information, please ring 01207-502680.