Police and Crime Commissioner vote counts start

Counting is under way after voters went to the polls to elect the first police and crime commissioners in the Cleveland and Durham force areas.

The Cleveland count started at 11:00 GMT at Thornaby Pavilion while ballot boxes were opened across Durham at 12:00 GMT.

Results are expected later on Friday.

The winning candidates in both elections will be responsible for appointing a new permanent chief constable.

Cleveland Police is currently being led by temporary Chief Constable Jacqui Cheer after Sean Price was suspended and then dismissed from his position.

Temporary Chief Constable Mike Barton is in charge of Durham Police following the retirement of Jon Stoddart.

There were four names on the ballot paper in Durham.

Voters in Cleveland also had four candidates to choose from.