A HUNDRED thousand pounds to tackle anti-social behaviour is to be spent by St Helens Council.

The council is setting up a rapid response team to stamp out the problem after three anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs) were slapped on youths in the borough.

So far, James Fleming, aged 11, and Darryl Lewis, aged 13, both from Johnson Avenue, Newton, and 13-year-old Ben Baines, from Station Road, Haydock, have been given ASBOs. If the youths break the orders they face a fine or jail.

According to the borough council, the rapid response team of five officers will respond quickly in local areas where groups of young people are creating a nuisance.

It will also work with St Helens Police to diffuse local tensions and encourage young people to take part in more positive activities.

The council could not confirm when the rapid response team will be launched, who will be recruited or for how many years the team will exist.

A spokesman said: "It is at its very early stages at the moment and we've no staff in place as yet."

Clr Marie Rimmer, council leader, said: "The council is responding to the concerns of local residents.

"A minority of young people can display unacceptable behaviour in a number of neighbourhoods across the borough. Working with the police and local people, we want to diffuse tensions and get young people involved in more positive pursuits.

"The rapid response team will be just the first part of a much bigger, exciting programme to address quite difficult problems.

"I am confident that the council's investment in our young people will soon realise real benefits for residents of all ages."