A TEAM of street wardens has been provided with its own telephone hotline.

From this month, Easington residents needing to speak to the wardens can call them on 0191-527 5047.

Previously, people living in different parts of Easington district had two different numbers to call, but now that the wardens are all based at Peterlee police station, all calls will be routed to one number.

The transfer to the police station also means that there will be a more co-ordinated approach between the wardens, the police, and the anti-social behaviour unit which are now all under one roof.

The street warden scheme, to tackle anti-social behaviour and neighbourhood problems, has now been running for three years and covers the whole of the District of Easington.

The initiative has proved a great success in helping to reduce arson, abandoned vehicles and dealing with other problems such as dog-fouling, fly-tipping and littering.

Easington council executive member for the environment, Councillor George Patterson, said: "The street warden scheme has been a huge success and, since last year, now covers the entire district.

"Residents benefit greatly from these dedicated community officers who help improve the quality of life and the environment.

"This move to Peterlee police station and the new number will make the service more accessible and help improve an already winning scheme.''