CRIME figures in Hyndburn are falling at one of the fastest rates in Lancashire, thanks to the success of the partnership between authorities and community groups.

The Community Safety Partnership has been ordered by the government to reduce its 2003/4 British Crime Survey figure of 5,648 crimes by 15 per cent. This would mean a reduction of 847, down to 4,801.

At the end of 2006/7 the CPS had achieved a reduction of 12.7 per cent - 715 fewer crimes.

Newly release figures show that at the end of July this year only 1,534 crimes had been committed. Analysts have now rated the borough's ability to meet its target as very good.' is made up of Hyndburn Council, the police, fire brigade, Primary Care Trust, probation service and other groups.

The CSP is made up of Hyndburn Council, the police, fire brigade, Primary Care Trust, probation service and other groups.

Insp Terry Woods, Accrington Police, said: "This is not a success for the police - it is a success for the partnership. At the moment there is so much regeneration, Hyndburn is on the up.

"The crime figures are a real feather in Hyndburn's cap. There are only two other boroughs in Lancashire that are in the same situation as us."

Comparative figures for April-July 03/04 and 06/07 show that all areas of crime are down, with the exception of robbery, which has stayed the same.

Insp Wood said: "Every single reduction is one less victim, one less piece of paperwork to fill out, one less window to be repaired.

"But feelings do not show up on statistics and if people are not happy with things that are happening where they live then they need to contact those who are providing the services. Attending area council meetings is one of the best ways to do this as representatives from the council and police will be there."

The CPS has achieved its reduced results by securing over £250,000 to address its main priorities, including tackling domestic abuse; dealing with underage drinking and alcohol-related crime; personal safety; anti-social behaviour and improving the local environment.

Recent projects include the purchase of sting' vehicles. Cars are parked at known vehicle hot spots and can then be tracked if they, or the equipment, are stolen. A specialist device can locate the stolen items to within five metres.

The CPS has also carried out the Neat Streets community clear up initiative in several run down areas, to reduce anti-social behaviour by giving resuidents a sense of ownership of their street.

Coun Brian Roberts, deputy leader of the council, said: "This is not just about reducing crime figures; it is about improving quality of life."