CRIME-FIGHTERS are heralding their success in crime being reduced on a Leigh estate.

And next week they want to encourage other worried local residents to tackle crime on the streets where they live.

Westleigh Community Safety Group have arranged a safety day on Saturday, July 26 at St Paul's Labour Club and also in the grounds of Hourigan House.

The group - alarmed at the number of frightened people on the 'trees' estate in Westleigh - inititated an action plan in February.

Now, following several initiatives funded by Coalfield Challenge cash, crime has dropped by 56% on the estate.

"We are not making a claim that the reduction is a direct result of this community action but it is a significant contribution to the improvement in the living conditions and life of that community," said police chief Supt Malcolm Howells.

Westleigh Residents Association have played a leading role in the group.

A spokesman told The Journal: "People are now working together and attempting to renew pride in the community.

"People were always in fear of crime on the estate; fear of going out and fear of what might happen to their homes if they went out. We're trying to change that.

"Over the years I've seen this estate go down and down. Now it's on the up-and-up and we want to give other people some encouragement to tackle any problems where they live."

Sian Jay from Coalfield Challenge speaking about the crime drop said: "We don't pretend to have all the answers and we don't have an unlimited amount of money to spend but we are helping people feel a little more in control of their lives and neighbourhoods."

The safety group have already consulted residents about security lighting and have plans for traffic calming measures, crime prevention advice packs, gardening schemes and welcoming packs.

The safety day which will include displays from Homewatch, cycle registration, car window etching, Special constables, road safety unit and the Westleigh Residents ' Association, will be opened by the Mayor, Cllr Ken Pye.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.