CHILDREN as young as 11 are causing trouble while under the influence of alcohol, according to the MP for Bury South.

Ivan Lewis, an education minister, is urging parents to take a leading role to stop youngsters making people's lives a misery.

He highlighted Radcliffe as a town with particular problems.

He said: "The police cannot be expected to tackle this problem alone. I'm asking parents to play their part - do you know where your children are at night? Are you doing enough to prevent them gaining unsupervised access to alcohol?

"We need every parent to understand anti-social behaviour is a growing problem."

His comments followed a meeting with Radcliffe township inspector, Stephen Clark, to discuss crime in the town.

Police are currently clamping down on off-licences selling alcohol to children. But Insp Clark believes most under-age drinkers obtain alcohol from other sources.

He said: "Older teenagers can get it, parents can provide alcohol for their children, and some youngsters will nag people entering an off-licence to buy them drinks. Those people need to be aware that what they are doing is a criminal offence and they can expect a heavy fine."

He added: "If your child comes home smelling of drink, questions need to be asked. If you don't deal with the issues, then expect a visit from the police."

Anyone with information or concerns on the sale of alcohol to children can contact Mr Lewis's constituency office on 0161 773 5500.

All information will be treated in confidence.