POLICE have launched an anti-social behaviour crackdown in the Morris Green area.

Officers have mounted high visibility patrols, CCTV surveillance of trouble spots and are challenging groups of people to account for their presence in the St Helens Road area.

Inspector Mohammed Razaq, Neighbourhood Policing Inspector for Bolton West, said: "Consultations with local people have revealed their frustration with the growing youth nuisance and criminal damage problem in their neighbourhood.

"Unfortunately this problem has remained hidden for some time as people have not reported the criminal behaviour that has been taking place around them.

"Now that we are aware of the extent of the problem, we are working with our partners and local residents to restore order in these neighbourhoods."

Police and council officers are also targeting street drinkers and off-licences which sell to minors.