A County's new team of police inspectors spelt out their intent to tackle anti-social behaviour and disorder yesterday.

The 13 County Durham community inspectors have been given the task of tackling what police describe as "quality of life issues," which include offences such as vandalism, graffiti, under-age drinking and off-road bikes.

They will finish an intensive two-week training programme today, before taking on their new roles on Monday.

As well as tackling anti-social behaviour, their remit will involve working with community organisations and residents to tackle problems at a grassroots level.

Stanley Community Inspector Ian Proud, who formerly had responsibility for the whole of Derwentside, said that under the new restructuring all the inspectors could now focus on tackling problems in one area.

He said: "I know what the issues are in Stanley.

"But previously my time had not been totally focused on that area because I've had so many other priorities."

Chester-le-Street Community Inspector Dave Marshall said the 24-hour response to crime was not going to change, but there would be more emphasis on working with communities.

The restructuring of Durham Police, which was introduced this month, also involved axing the constabulary's six divisions and replacing them with a north division - with its headquarters in Chester-le-Street - and a south division, based in Darlington.