A POLICE crackdown has seen antisocial behaviour in Hucknall fall by almost a quarter.
Inspector Nick Butler said the number of incidents between April and October this year is down 22 per cent on the same period in 2011.
He said one of the key reasons for the improvement was a dedicated antisocial behaviour team taking to the streets at peak times when troublemakers are in action.
The team have been operating for about two-and-a-half years.
"It's made a massive difference. It gives a specific responsibility to officers to tackle antisocial behaviour," said Inspector Butler. "The figures show the impact."
He added: "Our key business is fighting crime and keeping people safe. Antisocial behaviour is no less a crime then a theft – there's an offender and a victim. It's equally devastating and we need to respond in that way.
"We are putting the victims first in everything we do."
Mr Butler said the police would not be stopping there.
He said: "Hucknall is a very safe place to live. It's got the lowest rates of crime and disorder for 30 years.
"We've got dedicated officers in the right places at the right times and we're working very closely with our partners.
"We can't be complacent and we are not complacent."
Rosemary Wragg, of Derwent Drive, said she has not heard of any incidents for a while.
She added: "I think they are doing a good job.
"You see police more than ever. It's reassuring.
"It's a difficult time that we are living in and the police do a good job."
Despite the statistics, some residents say that antisocial behaviour is still a problem in Hucknall.
Dawn Plenty, of Palmer Avenue, said: "What really annoys me is all the glass on the floor. I've had two punctures in my mobility scooter in the last month and it cost me £170 to get it fixed."
The 78-year-old added: "You worry you might get a brick thrown through your window.
"It's mostly youngsters. They know they can get away with stuff and if there was more police it might deter them.
"They ride their bikes on the pavement. Last week one went right over me."
Deborah Robinson works at T8s Wine Bar in Central Walk.
The 47-year-old said: "We've had a few come in here. They get a bit loud and rowdy. You get used to who they are."
She added: "I don't think it's worse than anywhere else.
"They aren't even kids – more grown-ups. It's often older people who cause trouble."
Ged Dove works at the Red Lion Pub on the High Street and blamed alcohol for pro problems in the area.
He said: "People can't afford to go out so they drink at home first.
"They come out already three parts drunk and the police blame us for their behaviour."
He added: "The police initiative won't make any difference. I have rung the police before and all they do is kick them out on to the street."