BURNLEY'S most problem families are to be targeted as part of crackdown against anti-social behaviour.

Burnley Council is to spend about £550,000 targeting up to 18 of the borough's most difficult families to address problems of unruly behaviour so it does not spiral out of control.

The cash, which comes from a variety of grants, will be spent as part of the council's anti-social behaviour and respect agenda.

It will be used to crackdown on yobbish behaviour and offer support to help improve parenting skills.

Coun Charles Bullas, executive member for the environment said: "It is money that will be used to offer family support to the disadvantaged and under-privileged.

"Because of the environment where they live and other factors, some children do not get the best start in life.

"This money will go towards helping them get through the difficult years."

The council and housing company Calico have managed to secure funding from a number of sources including the Home Office and the Housing Corporation.

The money will expand the council's family intervention project, targeting the borough's 18 most problem families, to identify the cause and eradicate anti-social behaviour.

It will also employ a supernanny to work with families carrying out anti-social behaviour or thought to be at risk of becoming unruly.

As part of the programme, a review of how the council tackles anti-social behaviour is being undertaken.

In addition there are plans to launch a number of events where residents can meet council bosses to discuss problems.

Burnley Council's executive will discuss the programme when it meets at the town hall at 6pm on Tuesday.