Crime-fighting van hits the road

A converted van is taking to the streets of Staffordshire to help police the county's crime hotspots.

The Mobile Community Safety Unit will be manned by police officers, as well as social and youth workers.

The vehicle will be used as a base to mount patrols. Youth workers will also be on board to counsel youngsters about the dangers of crime.

The venture is a joint initiative between police and Newcastle-under-Lyme and Staffordshire Moorlands councils.

Community safety co-ordinator Sophie Gibson said: "Newcastle Safer Communities Partnership has spent seven months getting this unit, a specially-converted Mercedes commercial vehicle, ready for the road.

"The unit will be a visual presence to combat people's fear of crime.

"It's physical evidence of how serious the police, communities and councils are in working together to overcome deep-rooted problems."

The van, which has been paid for by the Home Office, takes to the streets next month.