A PAIR of bobbies are going back to the classroom to help build long-term links with local youngsters.
PCs Malcolm Eckert and Julie Mardon, of South Tyneside police, have been appointed schools development officers to work with 46 primary and 11 second-ary schools in the area.
They will discuss issues as part of the schools' citizenship lessons.
"We know a considerable number of young people who begin to commit offences and come to the notice of police could have been deterred from this if we were able to intervene earlier," said Superintendent Dave Crosthwaite.
"By basing officers in schools they can use their basic police experience and training to work with teachers to identity those likely to offend and help divert them away from this."
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