A NEW policing scheme in Hambleton will see teams based in Northallerton, Bedale, Thirsk, Easingwold, Great Ayton and Stokesley.

These back-to-basics teams will each comprise a sergeant, four police constables, and one police community support officer. Based in their respective areas during the daytime and evenings, the officers will spend time on foot and mobile patrol, attend local meetings and work closely with the community to tackle local issues.

Insp Simon Lovell, from Northallerton police, said: "Teams will be familiar with their areas and come to be very familiar to residents. They are largely made up of local officers who have specifically asked to get involved in these communities. When problems arise, residents will know these officers as people they can contact for help, and can be sure the officers will be aware of local issues."

Insp John Richardson helped set up the team for Great Ayton before his move to Thirsk.

Coun John Fletcher, spokesman for community safety on Hambleton District Council cabinet, said: "A lot of people think that crime and disorder is solely a police issue but in fact it is a community one. We all need to work in a partnership, and we all have a part to play."

The Bedale and Northallerton teams are led by Sgt Simon Wilson, Thirsk and Easingwold by Sgt Luis Ponte, and Sgt Sarah Sanderson oversees the Great Ayton team. All can be contacted on 0845 6060247.