Two schoolboys made the subject of an anti-social behaviour order have been named following the intervention of their local newspaper.

The Newton and Golborne Guardian teamed up with a local housing trust to persuade magistrates that the pair, aged 11 and 13, should not be able to hide behind anonymity.

Magistrates agreed – and said they were so concerned by the boys' actions that their names should be made public.

They had been in court for causing harassment, alarm and distress to residents by threatening and swearing at them in the street.

The three-year orders imposed by the bench means they face up to five years in prison, or a fine, if they break its terms.

The court was told in mitigation how one of the boys had learning and behavioural difficulties, while the other had altered his behaviour since the first court date.

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