A DISTINCTIVE new uniform is to become a familiar sight on the streets of Darlington in a move to make them safer.

Darlington Community Safety Partnership and Darlington Borough Council have appointed their first uniformed neighbourhood warden, Greg Rielly, as part of an initiative to reduce crime and the fear of crime.

Warden Rielly will work closely with the police, patrolling residential areas on foot, to identify residents at risk, gather intelligence and offer support, advice and help.

Wardens will also have the power to issue some fixed penalty fines for offences such as littering and parking.

They will also be able to recommend additional funding for residents in some areas of the town for extra help in beating burglars, such as free window locks, house surveys or door locks.

Talking about his role, Warden Rielly said: "I hope to get to know the people in the areas I patrol very well.

"I have been trained extensively to offer help, not just with crime issues, but also in finding the right council service to help people.

"The uniform will help to let both residents and criminals know that I am in the area and watching what is happening."

Councillor Bill Dixon, cabinet member for social and health issues and Inspector Dennis Dixon of Darlington Police, welcomed the appointment.

Coun Dixon said: "People's health and social care includes helping them to be free of the fear of crime. As a member of the police authority, I am pleased that the council is able to support and work alongside the police to make our streets safer."

Insp Dixon said: "The appointment of neighbourhood wardens is an important step forward. They will work closely with the police, particularly the beat officers, enabling us jointly to tackle problems."

The post has been funded by a £78,000 Home Office Crime Reduction Programme Grant, the largest grant awarded in the North of England. It is one of the first schemes to involve uniformed warden patrols alongside police and it is hoped to expand it in the future.