UNDERAGE drinkers are to be targeted in a major police crackdown in Woodrow, Greenlands, Lodge Park and Oakenshaw.

The blitz follows concerns from residents about alcohol-related vandalism by youngsters.

Among measures being used by police are targeting areas where children gather, such as school playing fields, performing high visibility patrols and working in partnership with the community.

Sgt Terry Shutt, from the south sector police base, said: "We are cracking down on underage drinkers in an ongoing effort to reduce crime committed by young people in the area.

"Alcohol can very often lead to criminal behaviour and damage and can sometimes lead to drug taking."

Sgt Shutt said the officers would be working with licensees in the area and residents to ensure youngsters could not obtain alcohol by asking adults to buy it for them.

He said: "Under new legislation we have the right to confiscate alcohol from the youngsters and throw it away."

He added: "Then there is the education side - we want to make sure parents know where their children are and what they're up to."

Anyone who sees any underage drinking taking place can call Redditch police on 584888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.