PEOPLE in East Gateshead will be asked their views on how homes and businesses are policed.

"Say it now" is the message being sent out by Northumbria Police Authority as it launches a series of public meetings.

The meetings will be held across the force area until mid-December as part of the first-stage in the force's Best Value Performance Plan.

People can talk about the service they receive, and which crimes they feel should have a high priority with local bobbies.

A public meeting has been organised at Carr Hill Primary School, Carr Hill Road, Gateshead, at 7pm, on Wednesday, September 6, so residents can have their say.

Senior police officers will be present to answer questions and explain operational policy.

People can also put their views forward via leaflets containing postage-paid questionnaires, the authority's website, or through a number of free phone telephone lines.

The performance plan will be published in April and will contain policing priorities for the year ahead.

Thousands of residents responded to last year's consultation exercise.