The new method delivers an electrical charge of 50,000 volts in a five second burst when two barbs are shot at the person's torso.

This overrides their central nervous system, causing the person to lose all muscular control and fall to the ground, or freeze on the spot.

Northumbria is one of ten forces across the UK piloting the extended use of the taser.

Since July authorised firearms officers have used it, and the second phase of the pilot started on Saturday when there will be small teams of officers in each area command trained to carry and use the taser.

Chief Superintendent Neil Mackay, head of the force's operations department, said: "The aim is to have a readily available range of options to deal more effectively with threatening or violent situations.

"The taser is one of those options, and by increasing the number of officers able to deploy we are greatly reducing the risks to the public and any possible suspects, as well as enhancing the safety of our frontline officers."

Area command officers who will carry out the taser all volunteered to take part and will continue to carry out their normal area command policing duties, but will be available to respond to situations when needed.

Chief Superintendent Mackay added: "This means area commands now have additional means of bringing a violent or threatening situation to a safe conclusion for all concerned.

"The officers were carefully selected for training in use of the taser and as with the use of any legitimate force, the taser will only be deployed when circumstances dictate.

"Officer safety, and the safety of the law abiding public, is paramount."