A POLICE constable and a police community support officer (PCSO) have gone back to school to address concerns in the community they serve.

PC Paul Lockwood and PCSO Graham Clyburn, who police the Norton South ward, in Stockton, have been offered a permanent office in Norton School to hold community beat surgeries.

The hour-long sessions will be open to staff, students and parents from the school and neighbouring Norton Primary, and anyone from the area.

Three surgeries a month will be held, and the schools will forward details to parents.

The officers will be present to discuss any general concerns or more specific issues such as bullying, vandalism, anti-social behaviour or truancy.

PC Lockwood said: "We're really looking forward to working even more closely with the school. It's a logical progression of neighbourhood policing and shows our deep commitment to listening to what local people want from us and then acting upon their concerns."

PCSO Clyburn added: "The headteacher and governors have provided us with a great opportunity. It's one which the police, the schools and the wider community will really benefit from."