MORE than 60 cans of beer and lager were seized by police in one evening from underage drinkers in Rochford.

Extra officers took to the streets around Clements Hall in Hawkwell and seized the alcohol including scores of bottles of spirits, wine and alcopops.

The operation was launched in response to residents' concerns.

District commander Chief Insp Andy Prophet said: "Invariably underage drinking leads to rowdy and nuisance behaviour so we have launched this initiative in response to the concerns of residents. In my experience most young people are decent and law-abiding but some do not seem to realise the distress their behaviour causes to others.

"If nothing is done such antisocial acts can lead to criminality. I want young people, and their parents, to be aware of these issues and, where appropriate, take the necessary steps."

More than 30 parents have been given letters explaining their child was in possession of alcohol.

Insp Prophet said: "I am seeking the co-operation of parents in speaking to their children about their behaviour and am open to discussing ways in which we can work with them on this. However, I have also made it clear that should their child be found with alcohol again they can expect a visit from one of my officers.

"They should regard this as a yellow card or final warning. Any further occurrences from there will trigger a red card and we will seek to place the young person concerned on an acceptable behaviour contract."