A BUSINESS couple have sponsored a handyperson to do jobs around their village for free.

John and Ling Valentine, of Grange Villa, near Chester-le-Street, run the vehicle leasing business Ling Cars.

Shortly after they moved to the village 18 months ago a man tried to steal their car. He was arrested and charged.

After attending local Police and Community Together (PACT) meetings the couple decided to help residents a helping hand with the handyperson sponsorship.

Today (Thursday, January 8), Durham’s Chief Constable Mike Barton met the woman they have employed, Clare Honey, of Stanley.

Mrs Valentine said: “It was obvious from talking to local people that they had concerns about the village and we just wanted to do something to help."

Ms Honey said: “I am really enjoying the job. Residents seem quite happy to ask for help and it is very rewarding to have people stop you in the street, shake your hand and say what a difference you are making to the village.”

Mr Barton said: “It shows what can be done when people work together and, hopefully, in the longer term, it will help increase local people’s confidence in their community as a safe place to live and work.”

Grange Villa PCSO Steve Larter said: “Grange Villa has had a reputation for a number of years as being something of a problem area. Clare has been in the role for a month or so and things seem to be going really well."