HUNDREDS of people have been finding out more about community policing and other services at a series of events aimed at helped to reassure residents about crime levels.

The final roadshow in the series of events, run by Mid Durham Area Action Partnership (AAP) takes place in Ushaw Moor today.

So far more than 600 people have attended roadshows in Brandon, Langley Park and Esh Winning, which were organised in response to concerns about anti-social behaviour and crime.

Andy Coulthard, Mid Durham AAP co-ordinator, said: “The Mid Durham AAP area is one of the safest places in the county to live, however residents were telling us that they were worried about crime and anti-social behaviour.

“In response to their concerns we decided to run these events, so that people could access a range of information and advice to provide help and reassurance.”

Residents have had the chance to speak with representatives from a range of groups and bodies working in the area, including neighbourhood policing teams, Durham County Council’s neighbourhood protection and road safety teams, officers from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Services, Age UK County Durham, Durham Housing Group, Karbon and the office of Police and Crime Commissioner Ron Hogg.

As well as seeking advice, residents were able to take part in activities including a ride on the fire service’s aeriel ladder platform, look inside a fire engine, the opportunity to meet police dogs Jet and Ben and to be put in a cell in the back of a police van.

The events have been supported by Mr Hogg, who is running his own “celebration of local superheroes” at Locomotion, Shildon on Saturday, October 27, between 10am and 3pm.

He said: “It has been fantastic to be involved in these events. The number of people who have attended so far has been brilliant.

“I find interactive activities are the best way of engaging with the public, which is why I have developed the PCVC Celebration of local superheroes event, at Locomotion. I encourage people to come along for a great free family day full of fun activities.”

The final event in mid Durham is taking place today, at St Joseph’s RC Primary School, in Ushaw Moor.

It is on between 3pm and 7pm and it will be include a “meet the detectives” stall, where people can find out what happens with major crimes investigations.

Parking is limited and people are asked to use the car park at the back of the neighbouring church.