YOUNG troublemakers who hurl insults at passers-by and vandalise neighbourhoods are being targeted in a special police clampdown.

Operation Seaview is gearing up to tackle known juvenile nuisance hotspots and persistent offenders in some of the district's rural areas.

The action comes in response to a rise in complaints to police in Carnforth about youngsters.

The operation will run throughout the summer and feature a high-visibility police presence with officers using digital video equipment to record offenders.

They will also make regular visits to schools to prevent and detect vandalism.

Where necessary officers will issue special forms - the first stage of the Youth Referral scheme - and a letter will be sent to parents or guardians.

Further incidents will lead to other agencies becoming involved.

Officer in charge PC Dave Lowe says: "Anti-social behaviour is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. To the residents it is a quality of life issue and they should not have to endure verbal abuse and constant vandalism.

"I would ask parents to be aware of where their children are and I would ask residents to report all incidents by calling Lancaster police or if they have any information about youths, call Crimestoppers on 0800-555111."