PRESTON streets are set to be patrolled by seven new crime-busting wardens it was announced this week.

A cash injection of £300,464 from the office of Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott, has been handed to the city council.

The grant, will be used to supply seven crime-fighting wardens and one manager, to patrol the city's crime hotspot areas, including Avenham, the town centre and Riversway.

The wardens will work at reducing fear of crime, deterring anti-social behaviour and fostering social inclusion.

Preston MP Mark Hendrick said: "We can now look forward to a uniformed presence working for residents to improve the physical appearance of our city, deter yobbish behaviour and reduce the fear of crime."

Details to bring the scheme into operation are yet to be finalised.

It is part of a national programme which will provide a total of £22.5 million over the next three years placing up to 350 wardens, as part of the Prime Minister's drive to reduce street crime.