Ex-boxer offers public protection

Mr Jones says his wardens gather evidence using video cameras

The boss of a company offering private security services to Darlington residents says he is not trying to compete with the police.

Sparta Security, run by former professional boxer Francis Jones, will send wardens to respond to anti-social behaviour using non-violent techniques.

Mr Jones said he wants to work with the police to increase public confidence.

Durham Police said people should be aware that Sparta staff have no greater powers than members of the public.

Our wardens will be there to increase the public confidence in venturing outdoors as we come up to the winter months Francis Jones, Sparta Security

It costs £3.50 a week to hire the firm's services, which include personal security escorts.

Wardens carry video cameras to record incidents, and will alert police if necessary, according to Mr Jones.

He said: "We're looking to work with police not against them. We're not looking to go against the public or get people's backs up.

"If they want to walk to the shops at night and on the way they have to go down a dark alley - it's real life we live in and these situations do occur.

"Our wardens will be there to increase the public confidence in venturing outdoors as we come up to the winter months."

Mr Jones said all Sparta wardens are accredited by the Security Industry Authority (SIA).

A Durham Police spokesman said: "We have no issue with Mr Jones starting up a business at all.

"The only concern we have is that members of the public should be aware that Sparta employees do not have the same powers as a police officer or police community support officer.

"In fact Mr Jones' security staff, although trained, can only react to an incident in the same way as a member of the public could."