Springwatch keeps youngsters off the streets

Operation Springwatch – a joint venture between St Helens Council, Merseyside Police and other agencies – diverted dozens of youngsters away from the streets

Instead they were encouraged to take to their skateboards at special Ramp Rider sessions, scale climbing walls, express themselves through environmental arts or join cage football sessions.

It resulted in 118 fewer anti social incidents on April – compared with the same period last year.

Chief Inspector Mike Constantine says, “In 2009 there were 1,337 fewer
incidents of anti-social behaviour in St Helens compared with the previous year. But we aren’t complacent. We’re committed to tackling anti-social behaviour in St. Helens - and will continue to work together in partnership to keep our community safe."

Rod Jones, Anti-Social Behaviour Manager for Safer Communities, St. Helens Council added: “We wanted to combat the light - night rise in anti-social behaviour by paying extra attention to vulnerable areas, and by providing young people with some fun diversionary activities to get involved with.

“We’ve seen our lowest number of Anti-Social Behaviour incidents in April for the first time since 2006. This is really encouraging, and we will continue to tackle this high priority issue.”

As the nights get lighter, more activities are planned for young people. A 20 week Ramp Rider programme gets underway on 2 June at the car park off Upland Road, Portico every Thursday between 4pm and 7.30pm. For more details contact Tanya Roberts on 07766791893 or 07144 675687.

(Image - Youngsters at Ramp Riders!)