STREET wardens began patrolling the Bensham and Saltwell areas of Gateshead yesterday.

Three street wardens and a supervisor have begun making regular patrols, attending minor incidents of disorder, keeping a check on empty properties and reporting on incidents such as broken windows, damaged street lights and graffiti.

The team has been funded by a £150,000 government grant awarded to Gateshead Council to help fight crime in Bensham and Saltwell, where burglaries have been a problem.

Patrols will be made seven days a week from noon to midnight, on foot and in patrol cars.

Wardens are also planning to have regular surgeries at Millennium House.