A group of neighbours have locked out the criminals by fitting big iron gates across their back alley.

It is likely to be the first of many such schemes in the borough.

For five years, residents of Emily Street have endured the worst crime-rate of the borough's worst crime blackspot, Burnley Wood.

Police say burglars target the back street because they can break into homes without being seen. More than nine out of 10 break-ins in the street happen from the rear of houses.

The residents are also sick of the alley being used as a 'dog toilet' and dumping ground.

Resident William Bruce said: "Life on Emily Street is 100 per cent better with the gates up. We have less concerns about burglary and the kids can play out at the back without us having to worry about people who shouldn't be there.

"It's more like a garden now. At one time you couldn't put your washing out, never mind flower pots."

Police are hailing the scheme's success. Burnley's police chief, Superintendent Mike Griffin, said: "We know this initiative will help in the fight against crime and nuisance. Most homes are burgled from the rear, and alley gates close down an opportunity for burglars and thieves.

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