POLICE are looking for people to take part in identification parades in Darlington.

Darlington police used to have a computer database of about 600 people who volunteered for parades.

But this figure has dropped to 400, and officers say that depending on the description of a suspect, it can give them only a handful of people to choose from.

In an effort to boost the number of people on the database, it is appealing for residents to volunteer their services.

Those taking part in a parade are paid, and police say they are also doing a good deed.

PC David Duncan, of Darlington police, said: "We have been so short that sometimes we have to approach people on the street to ask them if they will take part.

"We sometimes hold two or more identification parades a week, and if we can get more volunteers, we would be pleased."

Police are looking for volunteers from all age groups, size and colour. Application forms are available from Darlington police station, or by ringing (01325) 742181.