A week of dedicated action is underway by officers to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB).

This coincides with ASB Awareness Week, during which Northumbria Police will focus on vehicle-related disorder, transport network patrols, and repeat offenders.

This initiative, which will include community engagement and educational visits, is supported by local councils and transport provider Nexus.

According to Northumbria Police, there was a 7 per cent reduction in ASB incidents force-wide and an 18 per cent decrease in youth ASB over the past year.

Chief Superintendent Barrie Joisce, Northumbria Police’s lead for anti-social behaviour, said: "We are very encouraged by the reductions in anti-social behaviour figures and they are testament to the hard work our officers and those in our partner organisations have put in."

He added: "We are continuously looking at further, more innovative ways in which we can tackle ASB so that our region remains among the safest places in the country to live, work and visit."

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth said: "Overall ASB figures are heading in the right direction, which we are all welcoming.

"These behaviours can really have an impact on you, your home, and your community - so it’s important we take them seriously."