THE ranks of east Durham’s police community support officers have been bolstered by the arrival of three new members.

Michelle Burr, Jonathan Roberts and David Weston have started their probation periods on the beat after completing initial training at Durham Police headquarters.

PCSO Burr said: “I always wanted to be a police officer but when I applied when I was 19 I was turned down because of my eyesight.

“I went on to work in the local authority for 18 years and thought if I do not make the move now I never will.”

She added: “It is all about building up the relationship between police and the community. We are the eyes and the ears of the police."

PCSO Roberts said: “My long-term aim is to become a police officer. I have worked in the community with various people so this is a progression from what I have done.

“M y aim is to mix with the members of the community and identify any concerns they have and try to get a solution that people are happy with.”

PCSO Weston said: “I have always wanted to be a policeman and am looking forward to meeting people in the community.”

PCSO Burr will join the beat in Horden, PCSO Roberts will be on duty in Peterlee, Aker Rigg and Eden Lane, while PSCO Weston will work in Blackhall, Crimdon and Castle Eden.