TWO former North-East policemen have joined forces to provide a protection service for people who may be at risk of industrial espionage, kidnap and theft.

Retired Northumbria Police officers Andy Redhead and Peter Thompson have pooled their expertise to offer a wide range of security reviews, venue protection, close protection, the movement of assets and security chauffeurs.

Mr Redhead, a former firearms officer who specialises in rapid intervention and hostage rescue, said: "People make the mistake of thinking it is only the rich and famous that are at risk.

"But anyone who has any political or financial power or influence should consider themselves - and their loved ones - potentially vulnerable.

"Across the UK, there were 2,500 reported kidnappings in 2004. High-profile kidnap plans that make the headlines focus on the famous people such as Tony Blair's son, Leo, or Victoria Beckham - but there are plenty more that don't make the news.

"We can help reduce the risk to make people feel more secure. Sometimes a simple change in routine may be enough, so they become less predictable, but we can also look at tightening security in and around the home."

The firm, Sec-Tech Specialised Security Solutions, is based in Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, and is licensed by the Security Industry Authority.

All the staff provided by Sec-Tech are from police, military or British Intelligence backgrounds.

Mr Thompson is an ex-firearms officer who specialises in evasive and defensive driving. Former clients include members of the Royal Family and high- profile cabinet ministers.

He did not wish to be photographed because he does a lot of surveillance work.

Sec-Tech can be contacted on 0845-002-0696 or at www.sectech uk.com