UNDERAGE drinking was the focus of an undercover operation run by Essex Police and Thurrock Council.

Large quantities of beer and cigarettes were seized from youths in the operation.

About 20 spot checks were carried out on young people.

One person was arrested for possession of Class A drugs and Thurrock Council community protection officers issued three fixed penalty notices for littering. Sgt Danny Torrance, of Grays Town Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Anti-social behaviour on the streets of Thurrock is often highlighted by our residents as something that concerns them.

“This operation focused on one particular area – underage drinking. By taking this kind of action the message is clear to underage drinkers and shopkeepers that we will not tolerate this in our area.”