THE chairman of the North Yorkshire Police Authority has vowed to continue a crusade for a better deal for the county, despite standing down from the post next year.

Baroness Harris of Richmond has confirmed her retirement from the position in May - more than six years after taking the helm when the organisation was formed from the old county council police committee.

But, yesterday, she said she hopes to remain as a member so she can continue to serve on the national Association of Police Authorities, bringing pressure to bear on the Home Secretary to improve the policeman's lot in rural areas.

Baroness Harris said: "I think, traditionally, North Yorkshire has been one of the lowest-funded forces in the country and it is time Central Government set about redressing the balance. Durham and Cleveland fare better, yet our officers police the county with the largest area.

"There have already been some improvements, and additional officers are on the way over the next three years, but it will still be some time before North Yorkshire gets what it deserves.''

Baroness Harris's decision to step down as authority chairman comes as commitments in London and the House of Lords have been taking her away from North Yorkshire more frequently.

"I feel the chairman's job is one which requires someone who can be here all the time, but, also, six years is long enough for anyone. I hope I have given North Yorkshire the best I could achieve,'' she added