Teenagers gathering on street corners are being targeted in a police crackdown.

More than 120 massed in a park in Mackie Avenue, Patcham, Brighton, last weekend and there have been reports of youths intimidating and attacking people elsewhere in the city.

A man and his wife were assaulted and their car damaged as they drove past 20 teenagers in Moulsecoomb Way, Moulsecoomb, last week.

Young arsonists were blamed when a children's playground was torched in Whitehawk at the weekend.

Under-age drinking is a common problem and during the Patcham incident, police confiscated bottles and cans.

Inspector Steve Curry said warmer and longer evenings were encouraging youths to gather and he urged parents to keep tabs on their youngsters.

The parents of ringleaders would be contacted by police.

Anti-Social Behaviour Orders would be obtained, banning offenders from areas. Those in breach of such orders could be jailed.

He said: "We will be targeting groups of youths, seizing alcohol and following up with visits to parents.

"Parenting orders could also be obtained which would oblige guardians to attend parenting classes."

Mr Curry listed top trouble spots: Bexhill Road, Woodingdean; The Avenue, Bevendean; Mackie Avenue/Ladies Mile Road, Patcham; library/school in Coldean.

Chief Inspector Lance Grey said police were working with local teams to identify ringleaders who are influencing others to commit crimes.

Mr Grey said: "We are not saying youths shouldn't meet up with friends - there is nothing wrong with that - but we will not tolerate the alcohol, the harassment and the intimidation."

Mr Curry said: "We want parents to know what their children are doing. The consequences of their children's action could fall upon their shoulders."