A WOMAN police officer has been given a new job, looking after the scores of asylum seekers arriving in Stockton.

PC Liz Chard, who has served in Cleveland Police more than 13 years, has been appointed minority group liaison officer for the town.

Stockton has about 400 asylum seekers. Facilities include a 70-bed hostel for men.

She said the role followed her work with many asylum seekers in the Langbaurgh area. "However, my role also involves acting as a link with other hard-to-reach groups who include the gipsy and traveller communities and gay and lesbian groups."

Part of her duties will be to oversee investigations into racist and homophobic attacks and to provide support and assistance to victims.

She said: "I am already building up contacts and relationships among various groups and the local authority and I intend to build on the good work that has already taken place. Our aim is to break down barriers that can exist between minority groups and the police."

PC Chard can be contacted on (01642) 302370 for advice and support and can also arrange presentations or talks.