A TOP police officer has unveiled a vision for a North-East force to tackle crime and reassure residents that action is being taken against criminals.

Sean Price, Chief Constable of Cleveland Police, is planning to deploy a further 20 police vehicles, as well as employing scores of new officers across Teesside.

His aim is to put the force at the forefront of modern policing by 2010 by delivering a professional service to the public.

Mr Price, who calls his plan Putting People First, said: "I would sum up the cornerstone of the vision for the future as the four P's - people, problem solving, partnerships and professionalism.

"We want our staff to be the best trained and the best equipped. We need everyone to have access to modern IT facilities and I also want to develop regular staff forums and ensure that senior officers keep in touch with the front line by going out on patrol.

It is hoped the plan will draw a line under instances of in-fighting among senior police officers and improve the tarnished reputation it received while officers were being investigated as part of Operation Lancet.

Putting People First includes increasing the visibility of police officers on the streets and visiting more victims of crime.

A Citizen's Forum will be set up to canvas views on policing and an enhanced help desk facility will provide assistance and reassurance to people over the phone.

Mr Price said: "The Cleveland force has major strengths, a can do culture and a willingness to accept change.

"We have a professional, dedicated and enthusiastic staff. Together we can succeed and put Cleveland Police at the cutting edge of policing in Britain."