POLICE are cracking down on anti-social behaviour over Easter in Atherton.

There will be high-profile patrols in hotspot areas such as parks, outside takeaways and off-licences and in the town centre at peak times to deter young people from causing trouble.

Operation Lima will include frequent patrols and police will work with Kickz and Nowt 2 Do youth projects to get young people involved in positive activities.

Asst Ch Con Garry Shewan is Greater Manchester Police’s lead on anti-social behaviour issues.

He said: “Anti-social behaviour can really affect people’s quality of life.

“Between April 1, 2011 and March 1, 2012 there were 12,983 fewer incidents of anti-social behaviour than during the previous 12 months, a drop of nine per cent. The bank holiday weekend provides a well-deserved rest for many people and I want to reassure residents that the police and partner agencies will be working together to tackle any antisocial behaviour problems.

“However, we need parents to take responsibility for their children’s actions and know where their children are and what they are doing.”