The PCSO's come from a diverse range of backgrounds

The town's first Police Community Support Officers (PCSO) employed by Northumbria Police took to the streets on Tuesday.

Similar teams in Wallsend and Sunderland City are expected to follow by the end of the year.

Chief Constable Crispian Strachan said: "I'm delighted to welcome the latest recruits who will help us to drive down crime and disorder.

"Working alongside regular officers and special constables, they will be a further visible, reassuring way of making our communities feel safer and we will be monitoring their progress closely."

PCSO powers Seize alcohol and tobacco from young people Request names and addresses of people behaving in a disorderly way Seize vehicles used to cause annoyance Force entry to property to save life and limb Stop vehicles for road checks Issue some fixed penalty tickets

The PCSO wear their own distinct uniform with blue epaulettes and ties, and blue bands on caps.

They have the same powers of arrest shared by any citizen and their enforcement duties mainly relate to unruly behaviour.

The teams of up to 15 working in Gateshead East, Wallsend and Sunderland City have been 50% funded by the Home Office.

The Gateshead East team, whose ages range from 19 to 56, come from a range of backgrounds, including a former mechanic and a hospital technician.

Quality of life

They will be on patrol in the Low Fell and High Fell areas between 1600 GMT and midnight, seven days a week.

Chief Inspector Mick Wilkinson said:" The PCSOs are most welcome members of the police family and each has the full support and backing of all operational officers.

"The team will work in the Low Fell area initially and will be addressing issues highlighted to us by residents and our own crime and disorder records. In due course they will be seen working across a wider area.

"I'm confident local people will soon see the benefits of this extra resource, and that together with our partners in the community, we will make a real difference to the quality of life enjoyed by all.

"Let those who indulge in anti-social behaviour watch out."