A unit has been set up in a town's police station as part of a bid to tackle the growing problem of petrol theft.

Stolen fuel is responsible for seven per cent of recorded crime in Stockton.

There has been an increase in this type of crime over the past year, with people making money by stealing petrol to sell on.

Two officers will be responsible for investigating thefts of petrol in the Stockton area.

PC Chris Stoddart, who is a member of the unit, said: "Anyone arrested for theft of petrol will be dealt with firmly, and their vehicles seized and destroyed wherever appropriate.

"Theft of petrol is a criminal offence, with a maximum possible prison sentence of seven years."

Mandy Ellis, chairwoman of Stockton's Forecourt Watch, said: "We are delighted to again be working closely with Stockton police in cutting down forecourt crime.

"The last campaign created significant and sustained reductions in the number of drive-offs we suffered.