A FORMER saleswoman is looking to put her people skills to work as she takes up the new challenge of helping keep the streets safe.

Lauren Wray, 22, from Peterlee, has been recruited to the safer neighbourhoods unit for Chilton, Newton Aycliffe, Sedgefield, Shildon, Spennymoor and Ferryhill.

She said: “I joined Durham Police as part of the business administration apprenticeship scheme six months ago.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with the organisation and when the opportunity to apply for the position within the safer neighbourhood unit came up I jumped at it.

“My previous jobs have been public facing, working in customer service and in sales.

“I’m looking forward to putting the skills I developed in those roles into practice again as I get out and about to meet members of the community and offer advice on how they can stay safe.”

Sergeant Jayne Burdess-Hoseason, of Bishop Auckland police, welcomed the new recruit, saying: “I am delighted to welcome Lauren to our team.

"She is perfectly equipped to handle the challenges that her new role with bring.

"Lauren will be focusing on our existing strong Neighbourhood Watch schemes throughout these areas and assisting residents in starting up new schemes.

“She will be working closely with the neighbourhood policing teams through community events and police and community together meetings.

“She is already making her introductions with existing Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators in her area.

“Lauren will bring fresh eyes and ideas to community safety.

“She has already started getting out and meeting people in the locations she will serve and I look forward to seeing the positive impact her hard work will no doubt deliver.”