A CRACKDOWN on anti-social behaviour has made the borough’s parks and open spaces safer places.

St Helens Community Safety Partnership, working with the Council’s Safer Communities Department and assisted by Merseyside Police, targeted known hot spots for nuisance and the Council’s Youth Service ran a summer activities programme.

Sherdley Park, The Dream site, Queens Park, Taylor Park, Bold Moss, King George V playing fields, Sunshine Park and Nanny Goat Park came in for special attention with Bold and Haydock being areas where most complaints were received.

Off-road two wheel and quad misuse problems dropped at The Dream from seven in 2012 to three reports last year and Police in St Helens seized 17 machines throughout the borough.

Encouraged by the figures St Helens Council ASB manager Colette McIntyre said: “The Safe Space campaign continues to contribute to the encouraging reductions of ASB. Results suggest the delivery of diversionary activities and a focus on off road vehicle misuse continue to be key aspects of the campaign.”