Booze-related anti-social behaviour has been slashed by more than half thanks to a crackdown, according to new figures.

Since the Community Alcohol Network scheme (CAN) was launched in June, anti-social behaviour has fallen by 53 per cent in parts of Accrington.

There were just 80 incidents reported between June and November this year, compared to 170 incidents last year.

The scheme aims to support retailers and residents in the Peel, Barnfield and Woodnook areas.

It is a drive by Lancashire County Council and police to clamp-down on those selling or giving alcohol to youngsters.

Barnfield ward councillor Tony Dobson said: "We’ve noticed a lot less problems across the board with anti-social behaviour.

"In Woodnook, for example, there were 60 empty houses boarded up which helped reduce drug-dealing.

"With this scheme, we are seeing a big difference and it just goes to show what can happen when resources are targeted."

Joyce Plummer, of community group Go Peel who recently won a Mayor of Hyndburn Award for Volunteer of the Year agreed it had been a success.

She said: "I've been out with the police and Trading Standards a few times and they do check to make sure under-age drinking isn’t going on.

"If they see young people in the streets with alcohol they will stop them and in some cases, take them home to parents. It has made a marked improvement in the area and if you go to the parks there are nowhere near as many people hanging around."

The project, which has now been rolled out across Hyndburn, has seen a range of activities to crack down on alcohol misuse, including targeted police patrols in hotspot areas.

Trading Standards officers have also been speaking to retailers to offer advice on alcohol sales.

They have also visited schools to raise awareness of the issue and to promote positive activities for young people.

PC Martin Midgley said: "This campaign is all about working with communities, retailers and other organisations to reduce alcohol related anti social behaviour.

"We are aware of the negative impact under-age drinking and anti social behaviour can have on our communities and I hope this action helps to improve the quality of life for people living in the Peel, Barnfield and Woodnook areas of Accrington."