A PARTNERSHIP with a car dealer has ensured beat bobbies in part of the region can get around.

Peter Marwoods has supplied two cars and a van for community officers patrolling villages in Richmondshire.

PC Sam Grainger and PC Paul Lax are already working to the north of Richmond, while PC Lee Featherstone will be concentrating on Colburn and Catterick village.

"We have been receiving lots of pleasant letters from people saying how nice it is to see a police officer on the street," said Sergeant Richard O'Neill.

"For example, a resident of North Cowton said the presence of PC Lax seems to be making the village quieter and a nicer place to live."

The higher police profile is in response to public demand, highlighted in a crime questionnaire circulated to establish what local people saw as the priorities when the community safety partnership was launched four years ago.

PC Grainger said seeing an officer on patrol also helps to reduce the fear of crime.

"I have always been a great believer in the old style of beat policing," he said.

"I grew up in a small village with a village policeman. To build up contact with local people, particularly the children, is very important.

"I am already getting a response from people recognising me as part of the community."