Northumbria Police's first PCSOs started work in Gateshead

The city now has 15 police community support officers (PCSOs) who will support the work of police officers.

The officers have been recruited as part of a three-year project, part-funded by the Home Office.

The team, who will work under the supervision of police officers, has completed a month's classroom-based training to prepare for their new roles.

Chief Inspector John Brady, operations manager of Sunderland City Area Command, said: "The PCSOs will provide a much needed service for the community."

Distinct uniform

He added: "They will patrol on foot between 1600 GMT and midnight each day and will help officers tackle disorder and anti-social behaviour."

The patrols will cover parts of the city centre including the Park Lane Interchange and the Millfield and Barnes areas, covering Sunderland Royal Hospital and Sunderland University.

The PCSOs have a distinct uniform with blue epaulettes, ties and cap bands. They have the same powers of arrest shared by any citizen. Their enforcement duties relate mainly to unruly behaviour.

Northumbria Police's first PCSOs started work in Gateshead East, in October last year closely followed by Wallsend.

A further six PCSOs are being recruited for Sunderland West in a partnership arrangement between the area command and the Single Regeneration Budget (SRB).