Northumberland Area Command were given Government funding to run an operation over the school half-term holidays, and focused on the south east of the county.

A total of 191 bottles and cans of alcohol were seized from under 18s while five people suspected of being involved in drink-related disorder were ordered to leave the area they were causing problems in.

Before the operation took place, Northumberland County Council community wardens, the fire and rescue service and Community Support Officers identified when and where they found evidence of youngsters drinking and fed the information back to police patrols for follow-up action.

During the week-long initiative off-licences were reminded of their responsibilities and the fact if they are caught selling to under 18s they could lose their licence.

High profile patrols also operated in key areas acting as a deterrent and reassuring the public.

Chief Inspector Simon Packham said: "The amount of alcohol we seized shows that a minority of young people are determined to risk both their health and a criminal record by drinking under age on the streets.

"Youngsters who drink not only cause concern for others, they also make themselves more vulnerable.

"With this in mind, we would ask that parents check where their children are during the evenings and weekends and what they are up to.

"They must take some responsibilty if their children are putting themselves and others at risk by drinking on the streets and acting in a disorderly or intimidating fashion.

"Although the intensive operation has finished, officers will continue to seize drink from young people when they are out on patrol."