A NEW branch of an association aimed at making police life easier for officers and staff from ethnic minority backgrounds has been formed.

The Durham branch of the Black Police Association (BPA) is an informal network of force employees.

The BPA was set up two two years ago to provide support to existing and prospective members of the force. It has contributed to recruitment and equal opportunities policies and has been instrumental in building relations with local communities, especially with regard to the recording of racial incidents.

The new branch offers full membership for all serving officers, special constables and support staff. The workforce includes 15 eligible members.

Branch chairman Sergeant Nadim Khaliq, from Sedgefield, said: "Some people have this idea the BPA is a militant organisation, but I can assure them it is not.