More reports of underage drinking

Speaking to members of the local District Policing Partnership, Chief Inspector John Magill revealed that in the year 08/09 there wre 29 reports compared with 82 during the next 12 month period - a variation of 182 per cent.

The Chief Inspector said that Neighbourhood and Response officers have been tasked to deal proactively with underage drinking.

The Chief also revealed a reduction in the number of crimes of criminal damage recorded in line with service targets from 344 5o 338 - 1.7% down.

These incidents, he said, occurred across the area.

Where hotspots are identified patrols are tasked to these areas. However, given the spread of these offences in terms of times and locations the prevention of these offences can be difficult, the Chief added.