POLICE patrols are being stepped up in a crackdown on a town's crime.

There will soon be a dozen officers patrolling crime-hit west Middlesbrough on foot and in cars.

The Northern Echo can reveal the old Newport Library is to be turned into a police station looking after the Whinney Banks, Newport and West Lane areas.

Crimes in the area range from prostitution and drug abuse to thefts from cars, under-age drinking, criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.

The extra policing will mean thousands of hours of overtime, and will be paid for from a £52m budget, over the next ten years.

Inspector Ian Swann, of Cleveland Police, said: "This is Middlesbrough police responding to the wishes of residents who want to see a police presence in their community.

"We are more than happy to assist the community in solving the problems in the area.

"It's a partnership with other agencies working to make west Middlesbrough a safer and better place to live and work in."

As revealed yesterday, the same area of Middlesbrough has been singled out for funding from the Government to tackle youth crime.

Reacting to the news that there will be more police on the streets, businessman Harold Stephenson, chairman of the West Middlesbrough Business Forum, said: "I've spoken to residents and businesses and there's a feeling that something is happening now.

"It's probably the best thing the partnership could do to instil a feeling of safety and confidence amongst the community.

"The police presence will make the area a better place for businesses, as people will want to shop and trade in the area, knowing it's a safe place.''

Resident Joan Ford, vice- chairwoman of West Middlesbrough People's Forum, said: "This is great news and very beneficial for the whole area. The residents can begin to feel relaxed and safe in their own community now. It has the support and backing of the residents 100 per cent in west Middlesbrough.''

Councillor Ken Walker, leader of Middlesbrough Borough Council and Cleveland Police Authority chairman, said: "This is excellent news for west Middlesbrough. This is practical partnership working which will help reduce crime and the fear of crime substantially.'