A NEW scheme could allow police officers to get back on the street quicker after making an arrest.

A new prisoner handling team will be set up at Durham city's police station as an experiment and could go nation-wide if it is successful.

The eight-member handling team will be responsible for interviewing suspects and preparing case files, freeing up the arresting officers.

Chief Superintendent Eric Suddes said it was hoped the new team would be introduced in October.

"In essence, officers in Chester-le-Street, Derwent-side and Durham making an arrest will bring suspects into Durham's custody suite.

"After completing paperwork, the arresting officers can leave responsibility for interviews and the submission of files to the CPS to the handling team.''

The idea is being looked at by a working group set up by the force.

"We need to maintain and improve our standards of investigations and this will be a high priority for the working group,'' said Chief Supt Suddes.