A CONFIDENTIAL service launched on Teesside last year to help people cope with the daunting prospect of giving evidence in court has helped more than 80 victims of crime.

The service, which is being run by Victim Support, explains court procedures and involves pre-trail home visits.

The scheme, called the Victors Project, is aimed at those affected by crime in Redcar and Cleveland and began last June. Organisers said 85 people have used the service. It provides witnesses with someone to talk to, continuous and comprehensive information on the judicial process and support throughout the trial.

Organisers said that measures, including television links to court, transportation to and from court and identification parades in an unmarked police car can also be provided.

Among those who have benefited from the project was a woman who was indecently assaulted by an ex-partner after he followed her home. The woman received support from the service and as a result of her testimony the man was found guilty of indecent assault.

The project is also available to victims of crime who are reluctant to report on a incident but who wish to receive one-to-one support and practical advice to get through the experience.

The Victors Project is financed by the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund. For more details about the service, call (01287) 205020.