Police officers on campus patrol

Two police officers have started beats with a difference on Tyneside.

PCs Mark Irving and Melanie Breheny are patrolling Northumbria and Newcastle universities in an effort to make students feel safe on campus.

They are also on hand to give students crime prevention advice and are trying to cut the number of bike thefts by giving out free locks.

The safety project is a joint initiative between Northumbria Police and the universities.

Personal service

PC Irving, who covers Northumbria University, said: "Students are a huge part of city life and the buildings cover a large area.

"As well as carrying out regular patrols we're also on hand to offer crime prevention advice, respond to any incidents and put operations in place to tackle any crime trends."

George Westwater, head of security at Newcastle University, welcomed the move.

He said: "Crime has decreased on our campus over the last five years.

"But we believe the presence of the new officer will provide a more personal service for students and help them to feel more secure in what are initially unfamiliar surroundings."