RESIDENTS in West Middlesbrough are to get more bobbies on the beat thanks to funding from the New Deal for Communities.

A team of police officers are working additional hours, patrolling the streets in a bid to curb anti-social behaviour and crime.

Inspector Ian Swann, of Middlesbrough Police, said: "This is Middlesbrough Police responding to the wishes of residents who want to see a police presence in their community. We are more than happy to assist the community in solving the problems in the area. It's a partnership with residents, businesses and agencies working together to make West Middlesbrough a safer and better place."

The police will be providing 5,500 additional hours in the first year in the West Middlesbrough area covered by the New Deal for Communities Scheme.

Harold Stephenson, of Alarmit Northern and chair of West Middlesbrough Business Forum, said: "I've spoken to residents and businesses and there's a feeling that something is happening now. It's probably the best thing the partnership could do to instil a feeling of safety and confidence amongst the community."