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Homeowners and businesses affected by recent disorder and rioting will be able to claim compensation, even if they did not have insurance.

People who experienced loss or damage to their property in Hartlepool, Middlesbrough and Sunderland during the riots may be eligible to claim under the Riot Compensation Scheme.

Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey said the claims must be in relation to disorder in Hartlepool on 31 July and Middlesbrough on 4 August.

The Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth announced the same compensation scheme for victims of criminal damage in Sunderland caused on 2 August.

The Riot Compensation Act says victims of criminal damage during civil unrest in England and Wales are entitled to claim for losses, even if they are not insured or their insurance won't pay out.

Mr Storey said: “I’ve spent time in both Hartlepool and Middlesbrough since the disorder earlier this month and it has been heartbreaking to see the damage to homes, businesses and vehicles.

“People affected by this mindless vandalism should not be out of pocket and it’s important that affected communities can seek the financial support they need."

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