A YOUTH shelter, installed on land donated by Rossendale United, has helped reduce crime in the Staghills area of Newchurch.

Opened in August 2006, the teenage hangout has helped to reduce the number of incidents of anti-social behaviour by half in just 15 months.

Steve Hobson, Rossendale United chairman, said: "It's really important that the club takes every opportunity it can to cement links with the community so I was keen to get involved.

"I'm delighted it's proved a success and has improved the quality of life."

Funding for the shelter came from Rossendale's Community Safety Partnership, Lancashire Partnership Against Crime and the High Sherrif of Lancashire's Crimebeat Fund.