A COMMUNITY group has been highly commended in the Government's Respect Awards.

The Beverley Street Gardens and Tewkesbury Street Association, Blackburn, received the award after tackling anti-social behaviour.

Residents from Tewkesbury Street formed the association in May 2006 due to concerns about criminal damage and neglect on the street and in Beverley Gardens.

Adrian Hoole, of the association, said: "Tewkesbury Street is only a small street, but had many problems with vandalism. In Beverley Gardens, there were problems of drug taking and alcohol, damages to benches and it had become very overgrown."

The group got in touch with the council and police, who supported their efforts in tidying up the area.

Respect awards recognise those who have taken positive steps against anti-social behaviour.