POLICE staff are taking to the streets to ask the public about their priorities for policing.

Community safety officers, special constables and back-room staff from North Yorkshire Police will be conducting surveys until January 20.

Deputy Chief Constable Ian McPherson said: "In North Yorkshire, we are very proud of the relationship we have with local people, and at a time when we are introducing neighbourhood policing teams, and setting our priorities for future policing, it is only right that they should have the opportunity to have their say.

"Reassurance and tackling the fear of crime are high on our agenda, and I hope the very fact that we are willing to listen to the public's views will increase their confidence in the police service.

"Completing the questionnaire will only take a few minutes, and I hope as many people as possible will take part."

Anyone wishing to give their views can also complete an online survey at www. northyorkshire.police.uk

The results of the surveys will be used to develop the force's policing plan, to be published later this year.