CRIME fighting initiatives in Gorse Hill have been boosted by the introduction of monthly surgeries with police community support officers.

The sessions are the latest in a long line of initiatives in the area including the introduction of a Neighbourhood Safety Team and new dispersal orders.

The schemes aim to crack down on problems such as rowdy youths and anti-social behaviour.

Police community support officers Vicky Floyd and Sarah Young will be available to talk to residents at the community centre in Chapel Street from 10am to noon on the 2nd of every month, unless the date falls on a weekend. "They will be able to talk to residents who have any worries," said Brian Best, manager of the community centre.

As part of Swindon Council's partnership with the police, a chain of NeST committees have been established in Swindon.

And police have hailed dispersal orders a success after receiving reports of a 50 per cent reduction in behaviour causing harassment, alarm or distress in estates around the town.