Prime Minister Tony Blair has sent a message of support to the Sedgefield Burglary Action Group.

Operation Lancelot is running in Mr Blair's Sedgefield constituency for four months during the winter.

Mr Blair said: "Operations like this are very important. Anything that can help the community feel safer in their homes is to be welcomed.

"I hope this initiative is a huge success and I fully support the work of the Sedgefield Burglary Action Group."

The Northern Echo will be publishing fortnightly updates on the progress of the operation.