CALNE is to get a third street-based youth worker following a decision by the town council on Monday.

The council's policy and resources committee agreed to fund a third worker to solve problems created by sickness.

Last year the town had two workers but if one worker was not working, the other could not go out because of health and safety regulations, leaving the town without a street presence.

"If we have three workers we have got a much more effective team," said Coun Derek Quinn.

The two workers stepped down last year because of illness and personal commitments, and two new workers are being recruited. The council has now agreed to fund a third with help from the district and county councils. One post has already been filled.

The street workers go out on the streets to chat to and advise young people on issues like health and drugs.

The workers are able pre-empt trouble by talking to groups of young people before any problems arise.

The project proved a great success and there has been a noticeable increase in vandalism since the workers have not been out on the streets.

"They have really been missed since they have not been on the streets," said committee chairman Elizabeth Hitchens.

The success of the scheme has been attributed to the way that the street workers can talk to young people.