County council members will meet with officials from the Home Office Fear of Crime team this coming week.

They will examine what can be done locally to ensure people's quality of life is not unnecessarily affected by the fear of becoming a victim.

The council stressed that the area has some of the lowest levels of crime.

'Key priorities'

Coun Jim Cordon said: "We're currently looking at fear of crime in the county and we're delighted that the Home Office has agreed to contribute its views to this project.

"People in County Durham do have a high fear of crime, and there are many factors including graffiti, vandalism or anti social behaviour, which make them feel threatened.

"However, the county has some of the lowest levels of crime compared to other areas nationally which contradicts this disproportionately high fear.

"Tackling crime and fear of crime are key government priorities and we will continue to explore the issues in the coming months and welcome any comments that the public might want to make."