A DARLINGTON building contractor is working with police to keep children safe near one of his sites, thanks to The Northern Echo.

John Richardson is joining forces with Richmond police to dissuade children from playing on building sites during the summer holidays.

Mr Richardson's company is building a community centre in Colburn, North Yorkshire, and police had expressed concern about youngsters playing at the site.

After reading an article about building site safety in The Northern Echo, Mr Richardson is preparing leaflets to be distributed to families and schools.

Youth action officer Gary Lewis, of Richmond police, said: "We have anticipated a problem with the site with the summer holidays coming.

"I am going to visit schools and youth groups to talk to the children about the dangers and we are also looking at sending letters to parents."