AN off-road bike and an uninsured van were seized by police out on patrol in the Bishop Auckland area.

Whilst PCSOs were conducting enquiries on the town’s Woodhouse Close Estate last week they found a youth with an off-road bike.

As they had previously been warned about anti-social driving the youth was issued with a seizure notice and the bike was seized.

During mobile patrols in Coundon, two PCSOs located a van with no insurance and worked with officers from the road policing unit to seize the vehicle.

Enquiries are ongoing.

As well as tackling nuisance or dangerous vehicles, the Bishop Auckland Neighbourhood Police Team said officers continue to target shoplifters follow a spate of thefts in the area and work to support vulnerable members of the community.

“NPT team are also continuing targeted mobile and foot patrols around retail premises in Bishop Auckland after an increase of shoplifting and thefts in the area,” a spokesperson said.

The neighbourhood team said investigations are also ongoing following several reports relating to damage to property in the Coundon area.

A spokesperson added: “Our work continues with vulnerable members in our community to provide support.

“PC Cockfield and PCSO Barron identified a vulnerable male after conducting further enquiries of an anti-social behaviour incident.

“Officers spoke with the male and offered further support and dropped off a food parcel. He has now been enrolled in Durham Constabulary’s and the Crime Commissioner’s Peer Mentor scheme to further safeguard the male.”

For more information regarding the Peer Mentor scheme visit countydurhamvolunteering.org.uk/opportunity/community-peer-mentor-1043.

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