CAR theft and burglaries in Ingol and Tanterton have been eliminated after locals took swift action to combat spiralling crime figures.

And the way they did it couldn't have been more simple - they chopped down a few shrubs.

The Ingol and Tanterton Action Group (Intag) removed bushes, pruned trees, blocked off passageways and improved lighting in the area that had been blighted by crime for years.

Intag brought together Lea police, North British Housing, Preston Council, MP Michael Jack and Spar to achieve the amazing results.

Thefts from vehicles have also fallen by a staggering by 80 per cent and juvenile nuisance, 22 per cent.

The results relate to the past three months, compared with the same period last year.

Intag coordinator Rachena Kumari said: "The results are astonishing. People used to be afraid to go out at night and the area had a disproportionately high level of crime.

"Now, people can see where their cars are parked and who's around the corner, which helps reduce the fear of crimea."

Sergeant Dave Winder of Lea Police put together a 13-point action plan to help combat crime. He said: "We increased the natural surveillance by cropping overgrown bushes and trees so that residents could see greater distances.

"The partnership members are the reason behind our success."

Rachena, who also organises advice and counselling sessions for residents, added: "The majority of Sgt Winder's recommendations have now been carried out and we must thank North British Housing for giving us a building from which to operate."

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