A NEW way of sharing information has been set up between Cleveland Police and Teesside unitary authorities.

The new protocol allows police and local authorities to work together to help reduce crime and disorder.

Representatives from Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council were the first to sign up to the new agreement at a special event at the Skelton Civic Centre, in east Cleveland, yesterday.

Langbaurgh police district commander, Chief Superintendent John Kelly, welcomed the initiative.

"A clear and well thought-out information protocol is the foundation upon which we can base effective partnership and inter-agency work," he said.

Councillor Dave McLuckie, lead member for community safety with the council, said: "This will be the key to unlocking information previously kept from both sides. There will be a need for careful monitoring and checking, but we see the principles as crucial in the way forward to tackle anti-social behaviour issues.