police in Cleveland can prove they practice what they preach after winning a top security award.

The force has won a Secured by Design award for the high level of security designed into Loftus police station.

The new station is a refurbished section of the original 150-year-old police station, the remainder of which has been sold for housing.

Chief Constable Sean Price praised the new security arrangements.

The building had to reach standards set by the Association of Chief Police Officers' project and design technical committee to be granted the accolade.

The chairman of the Redcar and Cleveland Community Safety Partnership, Chief Superintendent Adrian Roberts, said: "Secured by Design is an example of a working partnership between police and the building industry aimed at reducing burglary.

"I think it sends out a very positive message to see Cleveland police putting these principles into operation and I am delighted to see my officers are actively working with developers in the district to promote this scheme.

"Built-in security has a proven track record of reducing crime and hopefully others will now take our lead."

Security measures in the station include burglar alarms, window locks and strengthened doors.