A CRIME manager has been appointed at Stockton police station.

Detective Superintendent Steve Ash, 37, has taken on the role vacated by Brian Dunn, who is now senior investigating officer at Cleveland Police headquarters.

Det Supt Ash, who joined the force eight months ago, said: "Stockton has achieved sizeable reductions in key crimes such as burglary over the past three months, compared to the same period last year.

"This is down to the hard work of the staff and the valuable partnerships they have built. I will be working with my colleagues to ensure we continue these improvements and in particular making sure we are using all available tactics, in particular, science, technology, analysis and legislation to disrupt, reduce and detect criminal behaviour.

"People can be assured I will be working very hard with my team. We intend to play our part to ensure Stockton is an enjoyable and safe place to live, work and visit."