POLICE say a three-month crackdown on low-level crime and disorder has achieved impressive early results.

They say the initiative, launched last week in Brandon, and the first of its kind in the county, has already led to a 70 per cent drop in calls about nuisance and anti-social behaviour.

The Durham force says residents have welcomed an increased uniformed presence on the streets.

"It is much too early to draw any lasting conclusions, but a drop in calls of more than 70 per cent is very encouraging," said local beat team lea- der Sergeant Colin William-son.

The initiative is spearheaded by the police, fire service, councils and other organisations.

The first phase focused on the Vicarage Flats, Dunelm Court and Redwood areas but will switch to other problem locations.

It includes listening to young people and giving them influence in decision-making and planning.

The County Durham Youth Engagement Service has spoken to more than 300 youngsters, mostly teenagers, to find out what they think will make the town safer and more enjoyable for them.

"There's no doubting that if young people are involved in making their community a safer place, this will impact positively on adults in those communities too," said Julie Scurfield, the service's area manager.

"They are not asking for a lot - they would like somewhere they can sit and meet their friends, a place they can call their own that is well lit and safe.

"They also suggested the youth club could open on more evenings.''

A petition seeking better facilities and signed by more than 300 youngsters, who formed an action group, was given to Labour's parliamentary candidate for Durham, Roberta Blackman-Woods.

She said: "It is very encouraging to see young people campaigning for their area and putting forward ideas to keep young people occupied and out of trouble."