Working in partnership with Northumbria Police, Wansbeck District Council have purchased a quantity of CRE Mark overt property marking kits, with government CDRP money, for a week of action aimed at combating theft in the Hirst area of nearby Ashington.

The kits are to be used by police during a community safety drive that is to be kicked off later this month by football legend Jack Charlton, who was born in the area.

Along with offering crime prevention advice it is hoped the week will raise numbers of Neighbourhood Watches in the area.