A SECRET crime-fighting operation in which police were joined by 56 volunteers to patrol a rural area every night for a week, has been hailed a success.

Not a single crime was reported during the seven nights of the initiative, which ended on Sunday, in the rural communities around Barnard Castle.

Farmers and gamekeepers formed the volunteer taskforce, to keep watch on isolated homes and road junctions, while every available police officers joined the operation.

Inspector Kevin Tuck, who led the venture, said yesterday: "This was organised because there had been 104 night-time incidents over a four month period, mainly of thefts of items including horse boxes, quad bikes, farming equipment and tools.

"We put everything we could into this special week. Eleven people were stopped on land and some have been reported for possible poaching offences. A number of vehicles were stopped and we gained some valuable information as a result.

"We were delighted that there was no actual crime. We heard towards the end of the week that some individuals were staying away because they realised what we were doing. They should stay away for good, as we will do the same again on different nights. If thieves come in they are liable to be caught."

The patrols took place from 6pm to 2am each night. On the same days, daylight patrols were arranged from 10am to 6pm in neighbouring Weardale.

About 30 vehicles were stopped each day in Weardale and three arrests were made for theft or for driving while disqualified. Other people were reported for poaching and information was gathered about activities in the area.

During the operation, 220 farms and isolated houses were linked in a ring-round scheme, to report any suspicious characters or movements.

Insp Tuck said: "We are grateful to all the farmers and gamekeepers who gave up their time to take part. Their presence was a huge boost to the police. They acted as our eyes and ears and their assistance was greatly appreciated."