News Shopper group managing editor Andrew Parkes is set to swap his desk and chair for a brush and shovel following the success of the paper's latest bid to sweep yobs off the streets.

The series' multi award-winning campaign Shop A Yob has named and shamed hundreds of thugs since it was launched four years ago – splashing with CCTV pictures of youngsters snapped in the act of vandalising public property.

And in the latest round of his fight to mop up the troublemakers Andrew turned the tables on his targets – by appealing to them to come clean – and give themselves up to the paper.

To his surprise and delight the new tactic proved to be a winner.

He said: "The huge success of Shop A Yob in identifying, and bringing to justice, wrongdoers has never been in doubt, but even I must admit astonishment at the incredible reaction to our latest campaign.

"Calling on youngsters to come clean, face up to their crimes and take their punishment has brought a fantastic response."

So far some half-a dozen kids – with their parents backing - have owned up to their crimes before they were named and shamed by a reader.

All have agreed to put something back into society.

Andrew said: "Whilst no-one would seek to legitimise their behaviour, these youngsters who have shown the guts to admit their failings and apologise should be given due credit."

Youngsters will still need to face punishment whether it is a fine, caution, ticking off or work in the community.

Andrew said: "We recognise that this is a social problem which will not be solved simply by naming and shaming.

"But it may help these youngsters find a way forward.

"And I will put my money where my mouth is, pick up a brush and shovel, and join them in doing some clean up work."

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