YOUNG crime fighters have moved into their own base to carry out its work more effectively.

The Junior Task Force, at Pennywell, Sunderland, will operate from a building in Nightingale Close.

The group, which has 120 members, was formed four years ago as part of the area's Safer Estate Taskforce, and works to promote responsible behaviour among youngsters.

Among the projects it has helped organise are litter picks and environmental improvements, as well as supporting local community and environmental groups through fundraising.

Elaine Murray, special initiatives officer for the Safer Estates Taskforce and Junior Task Force co-ordinator, said: "Improving community safety is a priority for the regeneration programme and the task force. But this is not simply about targeting criminals and preventing crime. It's also about educating people, particularly youngsters, and showing them that there is an alternative.

"We show young people they can take an active role in improving their community through responsible behaviour, and can become role models for other youngsters."

As part of the expansion, the project has taken on two new workers to give residents advice on home security and Neighbourhood Watch and offer a victim support service.

The task force is funded through the area's £18m Single Regeneration Budget grant, Northumbria Police and Sunderland Housing Group.