´óÏó´«Ã½

Durham Police has outlined plans to provide a better service to local communities.

Improvements include the introduction of a new 101 non-emergency number and more police cells in stations.

They will also continue officer recruitment, which began in October after a two-year recruitment freeze.

Durham Police Authority said the decision in 2009 to cut "deep and early" meant services in County Durham and Darlington could now be enhanced.

Police Authority Chairman Peter Thompson said: "It will be welcome news to many that new officers and additional PCSOs are being recruited, as we know they are held in the highest regard by the communities of County Durham and Darlington."