A dozen extra officers were drafted in to blitz alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour among underage youngsters during half-term.

Beds Police launched the campaign to crack down on underage drinking after receiving extra Government cash to get to grips with the problem.

Insp John Cookman said: "Alcohol fuels misbehaviour and you can see this in the night-time economy among people who can drink legally."

The main areas affected by drink-fuelled yobs are parades of shops, precincts, parks and open spaces, rather than housing estates.

The two-week campaign began on the Friday when students broke up for half-term.

A total of 12 officers were despatched, dedicated to rooting out nuisance youths, and using new powers to confiscate booze and move on groups seen to be causing trouble.

Officers seized 15 bottles of spirits, including brandy and Jack Daniel's whisky, and between 30 and 40 cans of beer. In addition, two youths were cautioned for possession of cannabis.

Insp Cookman warned parents should take responsibility when their children come home "bleary-eyed and smelling of drink.

"We are not talking about kids approaching the legal age of drinking, some are as young as 12."