A SECURITY team from Derwentside has won the best use of technology category in the North-East round of the British Security Industry Association's (BSIA) annual Security Officer Awards.

The Project Genesis team of CCTV security camera operatives works for G4S Security Services and monitors the cameras in the Stanley, Consett and Derwentside areas.

They were nominated for their outstanding use of CCTV, which has reduced the incidence of vandalism, graffiti and shoplifting in the area.

It has made Derwentside a safer place to live and visit as it has reduced the fear of crime.

Over the past three years, there have been just over 800 recorded incidents and, due to the team's efforts and their close relationship with the police, these have resulted in 700 arrests.

Naomi Broad, G4S Security Services' marketing communications manager, said: "The enthusiasm and professional manner in which the team go about their duties is superb, and the excellent results that they produce are proof of this.

"All members of the team are well-motivated and determined to do the job to the best of their ability. They thoroughly deserve this award."

The BSIA's awards are presented regionally throughout the UK, with the winners going forward to national judging.

Norman Cooke, who works for G4S Security Services at EDF Energy, in Sunderland, has won the service to the customer award.

His demonstrated his dedication during a major power cut recently. Acting calmly, he was able to update members of staff and reset circuit breakers in key areas as events unfolded