Extra police patrols at Sunderland's Tunstall Hills following anti-social behaviour complaints

Sunderland Police shared pictures on its Twitter account of litter – including an empty lager box – left at the open space, and called on the public to report any incidents directly to the force, in a bid to clamp down on anti-social behaviour.

The social media messages, posted on Tuesday, June 9, reassured families that officers had ‘increased patrols’ in the area in response to concerns – which the account said also inlcuded ‘drinking and drug use in the quarry area’.

A Northumbria Police spokeswoman confirmed to the Echo that officers had been called out to Tunstall Hills three times so far in June.

These calls were in response to a noise complaint, a reported gathering of youths, and a large tent being put up but then abandoned.

She added: "Officers are aware of ongoing issues in the Tunstall Hills area of Sunderland.

"In response we have increased patrols of the area and are working closely with partner agencies including Sunderland City Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team and Environmental Health.

"We urge anyone with any issues to please get in touch via our website."

The force has previously spoken of its commitment to tackling disorder across the city, as official figures from the Home Office revealed there had been 1,148 reports of anti-social behaviour in April alone.

Northumbria Police can be contacted through the non-emergency number 101 or through the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the force website.

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