A RAIL company with services to York is sponsoring its own bobbies.

First TransPennine Express has paid to sponsor two Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) from the British Transport Police, to provide dedicated patrols and services to passengers and rail staff.

It is the first time a transport organisation has supported and sponsored British Transport Police officers on trains in the North Eastern area.

The Press told in March how companies in North Yorkshire could soon be able to sponsor their own police community support officer.

A British Transport Police spokeswoman said their new officers, who began work yesterday, will play a vital role and be dedicated to promoting and maintaining the safety of the First TransPennine Express network, as well as providing a reassuring presence for the travelling public.

The officers will carry out high visibility patrols on key First TransPennine Express routes such as Huddersfield to York, and will provide an important link to the railway staff and passengers.

Superintendent Terry Nicholson, of British Transport Police, said: "We are delighted that First TransPennine Express has agreed to provide funding for additional officers to patrol their routes.

"It is important people feel safe on the public transport network and dedicated officers will provide a good visual presence and deterrent, which is the key to addressing problems of low-level disorder and antisocial behaviour. Their presence will also assist in increasing awareness of local problems and issues affecting the railways.

"The vast majority of journeys on public transport throughout the area are made without incident, millions travel on the railway network daily, very few become a victim of crime, it is the small antisocial element that we are keen to clamp down on."

Edith Rodgers, customer services director, said: "We are pleased to be working with the British Transport Police to ensure that our passengers feel even more safe and secure. Although there are very few incidents on the railway, the officers will ensure that our passengers and staff are supported in every way possible and maintain the good safety record on our network."

Companies in the county would be able to sponsor an individual officer in return for "enhanced policing services", such as increased security and law enforcement near their premises, under plans heard by North Yorkshire Police Authority.