Police have powers to confiscate alcohol or fine offenders

Cambridgeshire Police said officers would monitor well-known drinking areas where youths congregate in the city.

Police and community support officers have powers to confiscate alcohol from underage drinkers and will prosecute anyone found buying drink for minors.

The operation, until Sunday 24 February, is being run in conjunction with the Home Office.

Community engagement manager Terry Moor, from Bridge Street Police Station, said: "Peterborough should be a place where people are able to enjoy themselves and feel safe, without having to worry about drunkenness, and officers will be using all the powers at their disposal to ensure this is the case.

"Areas where residents have reported alcohol-related problems in the past will be targeted and those who flout a banning order will be arrested."

Anyone caught trying to buy alcohol for under-18s faces an �80 fixed penalty notice, or a fine of up to �5,000 if the case goes to court.