A TEENAGER has been by her peers to become the new young police, crime and victims’ commissioner for County Durham and Darlington.

Sixteen-year-old Ellen Terry, from Belmont, Durham, is taking up the role, which will see her working with Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Ron Hogg.

Ellen, who is studying at Durham Sixth Form Centre, said: “I have always wanted to help people and I thought that this was a great opportunity to do so.

“I hope to make a positive impact in Durham and help to raise awareness of different issues within young people’s lives.”

She has chosen three priorities for her year in office and wants to improve outcomes for victims and perpetrators of crime who suffer from mental health difficulties, improve education for young people about substance misuse and increasing perceptions of the police.

She added: “I am pleased to see that the Government have appointed a new Minster for Suicide Prevention. When researching for my manifesto I was heartbroken to learn that around 84 men per week commit suicide.

“I want to make it known to people that help is available to them it really is ok not to be ok.’

Mr Hogg said: “I look forward to working with her over the next twelve months as she has lots of great ideas.”