TOUGH security standards at two primary schools have earned them police awards.

Middlestone Moor Primary, near Spennymoor and Catchgate Primary, at Annfield Plain, have gained Secured by Design accreditation, a nationally-approved award which recognises crime prevention measures.

Constructions such as car parks have been granted the status, but the schools are the first in the region to reach the tough standards.

Both have been built with landscaping to aid surveillance and there are no dark corners where vandals or under-age drinkers can hide.

Doors and windows have had laminated glass installed and bins are stored away from the main school, so the chances of arson attacks are reduced. Equipment can also be safely stored in the schools, and roofs and window sills are pitched so that people cannot climb on to them.

Durham police's architectural liaison officer, Andrew Duckworth, said: "Typically, buildings with secured status suffer 70 per cent less crime, so this award is good news not only for the council, but for all council tax payers. Secured by Design status can be awarded to any type of building development but, as far as we know, these are the first schools in the North-East to gain the award."

Durham Chief Constable George Hedges presented a certificate to Middlestone Moor Primary School, this week.