Youths across Essex are being targeted by police in the biggest operation of its kind.

Operation Cougar Cub was officially launched on Friday ahead of a two-week period of activities aimed at steering children away from crime.

Activities for the Youth Spotlight initiative, possibly the largest of its kind in the country, will be held in all five districts in Essex.

The activities, including special assemblies, workshops and sporting events, run until October 29, encompassing term time as well as the half-term holidays.