A combination of more police patrols led to a drop in criminal damage, and Acceptable Behaviour Contracts have been used to curb unruly behaviour of youths.

Between April and October 2004, break-ins were down 11%, car crime was down 36%, and assaults and muggings fell 10%.

Chairman of the Residents’ Association Mark Knight said: “The same issues were being raised, in terms of crime, disorder, antisocial behaviour, and the general appearance of the estate.

“We have all worked hard, not only with the police tackling crime and arresting offenders, but also other agencies playing their part, such as refurbishing the shop area to make it a more pleasant and safe place to be, introducing facilities for youths to keep them from the streets and the housing authorities using their power to deal with nuisance neighbours.”