Sarah Honeyman took up the neighbourhood policing post earlier this month.

Insp Honeyman takes over from Acting Inspector Mark Edwards who had been filling the role since the sudden and tragic death of former neighbourhood inspector Mark Hall in April last year.

Having served with Durham Constabulary for over 21 years, Insp Honeyman has previously worked within the safeguarding, CID and 24/7 response teams.

She said: “I am delighted and excited to be taking up this new role within the heart of a fantastic neighbourhood policing team. I have been in post for just a few weeks but already I can see the dedication and hard work of the beat officers in Newton Aycliffe.

“I’m spending as much time as possible at the moment getting out and about to meet local people and talk to them about the issues that matter to them. I am committed to making sure we continue to deliver the highest levels of service to the communities we serve.

“My team are always keen to hear the views of residents and so I would encourage anyone who would like to talk to us to come along to one of our regular police and community together (PACT) meetings, where we discuss local issues and policing priorities, details of which can be found on the force website. If you can’t make a meeting, then you can visit us at the Newton Aycliffe police station or call or email me direct.

Insp Honeyman can be contact via sarah.honeyman@durham.pnn.police.uk