PEOPLE are invited to tell Durham Police what they believe their priorities should be in fighting crime.

The force, Durham Police Authority and community safety partners are inviting local people to have their say on what they view as the top policing and community safety priorities for 2012-13.

Jon Stoddart, Durham Police's chief constable, said: "It's crucial that we inspire confidence in our communities by providing a policing service which reflects their needs and concerns.

"I would encourage as many people as possible to get involved in this survey so they shape their policing service."

People will be asked to vote for their top three priorities out of a list of seven areas agreed at the police authority's business planning and productivity committee.

These are: reducing harm caused by serious organised crime; protecting communities from terrorism and extremism; reducing the impact of alcohol abuse; reducing the impact of drug abuse; protecting vulnerable people from harm; solving local problems with local partners and tackling anti-social behaviour.

Peter Thompson, police authority chairman, said: "Representing the priorities of local communities is a core business activity for the authority.

"Wewant to reach aswide an audience as possible and understand that not everyone can attend the meetings we hold.

"With this inmindwe are exploring other options to enable the public to provide us with their views."

Further details on the consultation can be found by visiting durham-pa.gov.uk