A DEDICATED team of anti-social behaviour officers is taking to the streets of Darlington from next week.

The team will work to tackle the well-documented issues that cause misery for people around the borough.

Nicola Rowland will head the team as anti-social behaviour manager, starting on Monday.

Her role will include ensuring that problems in the community are responded to quickly, and giving victims of anti-social behaviour the support they need.

She will be joined by two new anti-social behaviour officers, Rebecca Bird and Anna Smith.

The team is funded by Darlington Borough Council and the three new posts will extend the coverage of the council's existing uniformed warden service.

It is aimed at helping residents who suffer the effects of anti-social behaviour to get help and ensuring that action is taken against those whose behaviour blights the lives of others.

Councillor Bill Dixon, the borough council's cabinet member for community and public protection, hailed the scheme.

"The appointment of Nicola and her team demonstrates our commitment to tackling anti-social behaviour in the community," he said.

"The team will ensure that residents receive a swift response to their concerns and they will work with the community to try and tackle some of the more persistent problems that occur in a number of areas across the borough"

From Monday, residents will be able to contact the new team on (01325) 346716.