POLICE officers from the region have been discussing how to promote career opportunities for women.

Representatives from the Durham and Northumbria forces took part in the conference hosted by Cleveland Police yesterday, led by acting deputy chief constable Della Cannings.

Officers heard that the size of firearms and motorcycles could be modified to suit women officers.

Inspector Clive Pengilley, the Cleveland force's equal opportunities officer, said the police wanted to show women were valued in the profession.

He said: "Women are under represented in firearms and motorcycles because the equipment has historically been designed for men.

"However, firearms can be fitted with smaller handgrips, smaller bikes can be bought or smaller saddles fitted."

He said the conference was about challenging the culture and ensuring doors were opened for women interested in specialist roles.

"We want brains, not brawn, to become the byword for a good police officer."