Bradford pupils say a handful of yobs are tarnishing the image of all young people.

A Government poll has revealed how 60 per cent of youngsters in Yorkshire are tired of anti-social behaviour because it tars all young people with the same brush.

About 500 youths aged 14 to 18 were quizzed as part of a Home Office drive to tackle anti-social behaviour and boost volunteering.

Teenagers at Challenge College, in Manningham, Bradford, told how a minority of troublemakers were ruining the good work of the majority of youngsters.

But they also called for the community and media to stop stereotyping and labelling young people.

Pupil Nadira Qadir, 17, of Shipley said: "If one person has a bad experience with a few young people, then they think all are bad.

"But there are many young people doing positive work, which needs to be highlighted."

The survey showed that youngsters actually embraced traditional values, with many insisting that young people should respect their elders and calling for improved manners.

Youngsters from Yorkshire also got a chance to air their views about the future of their communities, calling for a reduction in crime, a larger say in local decision-making and less litter and graffiti.

The majority, 75 per cent, of Yorkshire young people also thought it was important to contribute to their local community. In a bid to boost opportunities, the Government has ploughed £100 million into the Respect Action Plan, which aims to create a million new volunteers.

Youth Action Network provides volunteering opportunities.

Chief executive Davina Goodchild said: "This survey reflects that it's a misconception that all young people are troublemakers.

"Young people themselves are saying 'I'm not like that'.

"Some feel they are not being respected by older people and feel they will give respect where they get it."

Bradford Youth Development Partnership director Salima Hafejee said: "The majority of young people are respectful citizens and are accountable for their own behaviour.

"Bradford is unique as we have a growing young population and we do not have the financial spend to keep up with youth provision.

"It can be dangerous stereotyping youngsters for what they wear - like freedom of speech we must have freedom of attire."

Home Office Minister Hazel Blears said: "Young people in Yorkshire and around the country are fed up with being tarnished by the anti-social actions of a minority.

"It is promising to learn that the majority of our youth agree with the importance of contributing to their local community."