The county has around 400 off-licences and police are working closely with retailers, local authorities and health charities to get them signed up to Off-Watch schemes, which work in the same way as established projects like Pubwatch and Shopwatch. The initiative also forms part of a force-wide summer campaign to target anti-social behaviour by young people, such as underage drinking or large groups of youths congregating.
Steve Cochrane, licensing co-ordinator for Northumberland Area Command, said: "The plan is for schemes to run locally and for off-licence staff to share information about who is causing the problems or any other issues they may have.
"Ourselves and our partners will help in setting up the schemes and also be on hand to provide advice and take action if necessary to stamp out problems."
Off-Watch first started in Prudhoe and has schemes in Alnwick and Amble. The ultimate plan is to have Off-Watch operating across the county.
As well as sharing information, Off-Watch members can benefit from crime prevention advice, training sessions and regular visits from officers.
For more information on joining or setting up an Off-Watch scheme contact Steve on 03456 043 043 ext 63592.