PEOPLE across County Durham can now get fire safety advice on their doorsteps.

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service has created six district teams based at local stations.

Until now, help and advice has only been available from staff at the brigade's headquarters in Durham.

Paul Reay, area manager for service delivery, said: "The modern fire and rescue service has an increasing role in providing communities and businesses with advice and support on a wide range of matters, including fire legislation, community safety and improvement initiatives, and accident prevention advice.

"The majority of our safety work is currently being delivered by firefighters at fire stations; the new district teams will offer greater support to our staff as they strive to protect the people who we serve.''

Derwentside team is based at Consett and High Handenhold fire stations, the team for Durham and Chester-le-Street is at Durham fire station, Easington's at Peterlee and Seaham fire stations, Sedgefield's at Newton Aycliffe and Sedgefield fire stations, Wear Valley/Teesdale's is at Bishop Auckland fire station and Darlington's is based at the town's fire station. Information is on the brigade's website at www.ddfire.gov.uk or by calling 0191-384 3381.