Thank you cards and cakes for police after riots

A young girl dropped cards off at Northumbria Police's Southwick station

Cards, sweets and cakes have been dropped off at police stations by children and families thanking officers for keeping them safe during the recent riots.

Cleveland Police said it was "overwhelmed" by the community's support. The Northumbria force said it was "very grateful" for the "massive" bag of sweets handed in by one child to its station in Southwick, Sunderland.

"Having the support of our communities means the world to us," it said in a post on social media.

Forces across the region cancelled leave and re-deployed officers in the face of violent disorder following the deaths of three little girls in Southport last month.

The police Facebook posts prompted responses from people praising the children who had said thank you and criticising the "minority" who had caused damage and disorder.

One said the post had "brought a tear to my eye".

Homemade scones and millionaire cake were brought in by a five-year-old boy

Middlesbrough officers said members of the public had brought tea, biscuits, homemade cakes, sweets, cards and "beautiful pictures to express their gratitude".

A group of community nurses had even set up a collection to bring "gifts and provisions to get the officers through their shift", the force said.

As officers carried out patrols "they were stopped many times by people who wanted to thank them and offer support" it added.

"The community spirit, positivity and support has been amazing."

Police forces said they were grateful for the show of thanks

Durham Police said it had also been “overwhelmed by the kindness shown by members of the public".

"Whether you’ve approached our officers on duty to give well wishes, handed in boxes of sweets or dropped in pizzas, your generosity and appreciation has meant the world to us," it said in a Facebook post.

Children have been dropping off drawings and messages of thanks to Durham Police