POLICE are cracking down on youths who have been causing mayhem in the west Teignmouth area during the school holidays.

Officers are taking action after reports that seven youngsters are upsetting residents in and around Teignmouth Hospital, including elderly and sick patients, and intimidating staff at night.

They have also been running wild through gardens and allotments, and police have stepped up patrols in the hospital and Mill Lane areas.

The troublemakers have been identified, and Teignbridge asbo officer Andy Davies will be sending them warning letters, which is the first stage towards obtaining anti-social behaviour orders.