THE longest serving civilian at Durham Police has stepped down, after 39 years with the force.

Brenda Surtees, 59, of Leadgate, near Consett, plans to start her retirement with a three-month holiday in the Australian sunshine.

She joined the force as a shorthand typist in 1964 and has spent her whole career in north-west Durham, mainly at Consett's Parliament police station.

Ms Surtees has been manager of the division's admin support unit for the past six years.

"Police officers are sometimes reluctant to come to Derwentside for the first time," she said.

"But they often do not want to leave and are always happy to come back, its a very friendly station."

To mark her dedication to the job, she was given a send-off at the Parliament Street police club and a commendation from chief constable Paul Garvin.

Her divisional commander, Chief Superintendent Ian Irwin, said it was rare for a retiring member of staff to receive a commendation.

"In Brenda's case it was entirely justified," he said. "Her contribution has been truly exceptional and her professionalism, enthusiasm and commitment have been an example to all who have worked with her."