(Image: Chris Booth)
Police have issued a stark warning after a large group of youths climbed onto rooftops in Darlington town centre and hurled stones and other objects at passers-by.
Officers were called to an incident on High Row on Monday (October 26), the first day of the school half-term holidays, following reports of anti-social behaviour involving a large group of youngsters.
The group had reportedly gained access to the roofs of buildings along the busy town centre street, where they shouted abuse at passers-by and hurled objects from height.
Durham Police said the behaviour was "extremely dangerous" and could have resulted in someone being seriously injured.
High Row, Darlington (Image: Chris Booth)
It comes after police received a similar report on Sunday (October 25), when young people were allegedly throwing stones down at people on High Row.
Police have now warned that those responsible will be identified and could face action, while parents have been told they may be called to collect their children from the police station if they are caught causing trouble.
Durham Police said: "Let us be absolutely clear, throwing objects from rooftops places members of the public at significant risk and puts the children involved in danger themselves.
"Such behaviour is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
"We will continue to identify those responsible and take appropriate action against anyone involved."
The incidents have prompted officers to remind parents to keep track of where their children are spending their time during the school holidays.
The force added: "Parents and carers are reminded that they are responsible for knowing where their children are and what they are doing.
Read more
Fires, smashed glass and vandalism spark safety fears at County Durham leisure centre
Police step up patrols at Consett bus station as residents say they feel 'frightened'
Police trawling through CCTV to find children behind 'appalling rampage'
"If your child is found engaging in this behaviour in the town centre, you can expect a telephone call from police requesting that you collect them from the police station."
Officers have also urged families to discuss the potential consequences of anti-social behaviour, particularly as the half-term break gets underway.
They highlighted the range of activities available to young people across Darlington, including parks, youth groups, leisure facilities, sporting activities and the cinema.
The force said: "School holidays are not an excuse for criminal, anti-social or dangerous behaviour."