DEPRIVED areas across the region are to share in a £7.5m national scheme appointing community wardens to help police tackle crime.

Civilians will join front-line bobbies in the battle against lawlessness, with an emphasis on vandalism and harassment.

Successful bids for a share of the cash came from communities in Middlesbrough, Sedgefield, Sunderland, Gateshead, North and South Tyneside, and south east Northumberland.

The wardens will also be expected to report problems to the authorities, and support vulnerable members of society, such as the elderly.

Regeneration minister and North Durham MP Hilary Armstrong said: "Neighbourhood wardens will give people living in these communities someone they know they can go to with their complaints, concerns, or even suggestions for what they think their area needs.

"I am confident the wardens will go some way to tackling deprivation and anti-social behaviour at a grass-roots level. They will also help provide the better, safer environments that are so important to creating strong neighbourhoods.

"This will play an important role in our drive to improve the quality of life around the country."

The scheme is launched in December with more areas expected to benefit as the Government plans to nearly double their investment in the future.

Some schemes will see their warden call regularly on elderly residents, helping with the shopping or linking up with social services.

In other areas, wardens will patrol the streets, helping to reduce the fear of crime.