A POLICE officer has been praised for his work in the town of Ferryhill.

Sergeant Brian O'Connor has transferred to Newton Aycliffe after two-and-a-half years in Ferryhill.

Sgt O'Connor paid tribute to members of Ferryhill Town Council and said it was probably the best working relationship between a council and the police anywhere. He said that projects led by the town council such as the Ferryhill e.cafe and the new youth shelters were to be commended in reducing crime, as did the Friday evening football scheme run by the police and Darlington Football Club. Ferryhill mayor Ken Campbell presented Sgt O'Connor with a council crystal whisky glass and pen set.

He thanked Sgt O'Connor for his efforts and help to dramatically reduce recorded crime in the town over the past few years.