PEOPLE in Sedgefield can keep up to date on crime in their area by logging on to a new community safety website.

Sedgefield Community Safety Partnership has launched the site, which has information on crime and crime prevention.

It features an interactive map of the neighbourhood policing area and residents can type in their address and postcode to bring up crime rates for their council ward.

Partnership chairman, Glyn Hall, said: "While residents are able to see the crime rates for their local ward, we would remind them that Sedgefield is already a safe place in which to live and work. We are proud of bringing down crime in the area.

"The borough has a crime rate 26 per cent lower than the national average, but many people tell us they are worried about crime and are concerned about the effect it may have in their neighbourhoods.

"Crime has been falling since the mid-Nineties. We want our residents to feel secure and have a number of projects to help make further improvements. This website will keep them informed of developments."

The website also has sections on crime reduction, anti-social behaviour and domestic violence. There is information on how to seek help for drug and alcohol problems and links to partners, including Durham Police, Victim Support and the Racial Equality Council.

It is provided through the borough council's site. Log on to http://cdrp.sedgefield.gov.uk