ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour makes people's lives a misery and blights communities.

It isn't fair that the selfish few, the louts, the yobs, and the nuisance neighbours, should be allowed to ride roughshod over everyone else. Graffiti, litter and abandoned cars foster an environment where crime and anti-social behaviour can thrive. Tackling anti-social behaviour is a priority for the Government.

The tough new laws in the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 give communities the powers to combat this blight and sends out a strong message that anti-social behaviour will be tackled not tolerated.

In every town there are people and organisations who are already making a real difference tackling anti-social behaviour in their communities, helping in a youth centre, running a residents' group or Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, or organising community clean-ups.

We want to recognise and support this work, which is why we a running the Taking A Stand Award scheme for the second year. I am asking the public to nominate local people who have decided enough is enough, people who have decided to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Entries are invited until September 28. The overall winner will receive £5,000 and the additional 100 winners nationwide will receive £1,000 to help fund their local anti-social behaviour projects. Winners will also be offered a specialist programme to help build their skills and confidence in tackling other local problems.

Do you know of a likely candidate or local group that deserves recognition, or are you a candidate yourself? Call 0800 085 2980 or visit www.takingastand.org for a nomination form.

HAZEL BLEARS MP

Minister of State, Home Office.