A LEADING police officer has been recruited to help people read and write.

Cleveland's Deputy Chief Constable, Ron Hogg, has joined the Get On North-East campaign to raise awareness of the problem, which affects thousands of people in the area.

He will focus on people in the force's area, and part of his commitment is making leaflets available in police stations so potential learners can find out ways of getting help.

Mr Hogg said: "By making information available to members of the public who come into our stations, we are making the first step to make learning more accessible.

"Prisons in the region are doing their part to help inmates make a better life for themselves by improving their skills for life, and I see this as our part in helping them before they get to that stage."

With an estimated 400,000 adults in the region needing help with reading, writing and basic maths, the scheme also aims to help people get work.

Alan Clarke, the chief executive of development agency One NorthEast, believes the initiative will help raise skills standards.

He said: "A highly skilled and adaptable workforce is critical in improving the performance of the North-East labour market.

"I am confident that we will be able to change lives and make a real impact on this vital issue that will bring benefits to the region for years to come."

To find out about improving literacy and numeracy skills, call the Get On campaign on 0800 100900.