FOOTBALL hero Peter Beardsley thrilled a community when he launched a street wardens scheme in Bishop Auckland yesterday.

The uniformed wardens are taking to the streets in St Helen Auckland, Woodhouse Close Estate in Bishop Auckland, Coundon and Leeholme, in an effort to clean up the areas.

The former England and Newcastle player told residents that he was delighted to be able to show his support for such an important scheme.

Mr Beardsley said: "The fact that people are prepared to work hard to improve their community is great, and I know with all the hard work put into this it will be a success. I feel privileged to be able to give my support."

It is hoped the wardens will help to tackle issues including anti-social behaviour and petty crime.

The idea behind the scheme is to give people the chance to take a pride in the place where they live.

One of the first tasks will be a big clean-up operation which will involve the cutting back of overgrown hedges.

The pilot scheme is funded jointly by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and the Neighbourhood Renewal Scheme. It is backed by Wear Valley District Council and Bishop Auckland Police.

The leader of the council, Councillor Olive Brown, said: "It is a wonderful scheme and if it is a success, hopefully, we will be able to extend it to other areas. I think it was fantastic that Peter Beardsley was able to give his support.''