Police are putting extra patrols out in west Cumbria this weekend to deter any potential youth anti-social behaviour, crime or disorder.

Officers have also warned young people of the consequences of landing themselves with a criminal record – and have urged parents to check where teenagers are going.

They did so to tackle a problem that emerged last weekend with teenagers causing trouble in Whitehaven town centre.

Officers on Saturday were called to deal with reports of disorder and fighting involving young people from both Whitehaven and Workington.

Extra officers are being deployed this weekend as a precaution to watch out for trouble.

Inspector Richard Smillie has warned young people not to put their futures in jeopardy by getting mixed up in crime or anti-social behaviour.

He said: “I would stress to anybody thinking of going out looking for trouble that they could end up with a criminal record.

“That could have serious consequences for young people at an important stage of their lives.

“People who are thinking about college or university or looking for their first jobs or careers do not want to end up with a criminal record.

“Parents should also be aware of the consequences of children becoming involved in trouble, so I would ask them to check where their children are this weekend.

“We will take robust action against anybody causing trouble or being violent.”

Councillors have also raised concerns over anti-social behaviour in the town.

The mayor of Whitehaven, Graham Roberts, said: “It’s a problem but it happens everywhere. We need to address it. We have to engage in a dialogue to see what we can do to engage with them.

"As mayor of Whitehaven, I won’t tolerate anti-social behaviour and aggression in the town. If people want to fight, go somewhere else."

Carl Walmsley, who represents Mirehouse on Whitehaven Town Council, said: "My fear is not just the sheer number of anti-social behaviour cases that get reported but the huge amount of cases that are not getting reported to the police.

"Some are too afraid to give their names and addresses for fear of reprisal, knowing that those guilty of anti-social behaviour will only get a slapped wrist."

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.