A POLICE sergeant has been promoted to inspector after working as the sole police officer in a multi-agency project to help children.

Sergeant Karen Winn worked with Ontrack, a Government-funded crime prevention initiative aimed children aged from four to 12. There are 24 projects across the country, but only one in the North-East, at North Washington in Sulgrave.

The project includes police, health, education and social workers, who support children and their families through counselling and practical intervention.

Sgt Winn said: "The aim of the programme is to keep children 'on track' within mainstream schools and ensure that they are healthy and safe."

She has worked with the unit since March last year and took on a managerial role in August.

She said: "The role of the police within this unit is varied, we offer crime prevention, child protection and domestic violence advice.

"Sometimes children come to our notice because they are truanting or behaving badly at school, and we work with the relevant agencies to divert children away from anti-social behaviour and crime."

Sgt Winn is leaving Washington after eight years to join Gateshead West area command following her promotion to inspector.

Sgt Winn is replaced by PC Wendy Scott, who will work closely with the Washington North Community Police Team.