Summer schemes to reduce school burglary and divert youngsters from crime have proved a winner in the Toller Lane division of Bradford.

Burglaries have been slashed by 63 per cent in the schools targeted in the schemes.

And there has also been a 35 per cent drop in vandalism.

Through several separate initiatives, members of the division's Community Safety Unit have worked alongside Neighbourhood Watch groups and other organisations to clamp down on crime and give young people something constructive to do in the holidays.

Drugs information was also passed on to youngsters throughout the summer.

School liaison officer PC Gordon Eddison joined forces with more than 200 Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators in the area to help keep school property secure.

Youth services projects officer PC Tim Illingworth drew up a list of 19 approved youth-activity schemes and, with other officers in the division, targeted young people to take them up.

A three-day activity scheme at Nell Bank, Ilkley, where 120 youngsters took part in challenging activities as the school holidays drew to a close.

And a pioneering fun day at Lister Mill, organised by the Manningham Activities Schemes Trust, attracted around 100 young people.

Community safety officer Sergeant Roy Wensley said he was pleased with the results.

"The various schemes have linked together and officers have worked in partnership with other agencies to achieve these very positive results," he said.

"We have been able to strengthen links and interact with young people in the division, building a firm foundation for the future."

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