POLICE have scored a first in tackling Leyland's juvenile crime by encouraging youngsters to swap trouble for teamwork.

Within weeks of launching a regular soccer night at the notorious Broadfield estate, the police have already noticed a drop in the number of call-outs they receive from residents.

Last summer calls to deal with juvenile crime topped 1,200 in the Southern Division.

But after just one month the football scheme, backed by PNE and New Progress Housing Association, is already attracting 150 youngsters - and keeping potential trouble-makers amused.

Officers are delighted that the initiative has almost completely stamped out juvenile call-outs to the estate during the Tuesday football sessions.

The man behind the idea, Sgt Steve Brown, said: "Broadfield has always had a problem with juvenile crime. This has nothing to do with it being a bad place, but because there is nothing much to entertain youngsters.

"By launching this event, which attracts just as many girls as boys, it gives them something to do and look forward to.

"Parents also come along and have a chat, so it also gives a chance for them to get to know each other and build up a community spirit."

Chief Inspector Warren Turner added that it proves that most juvenile nuisance problems are a result of bored minds, rather than criminal intent. He said: "By helping youngsters enjoy their holiday, we can reduce the number of call outs as they aren't so bored.

"Often it's just youthful exuberance but we realise sometimes there is a real problem and we will act accordingly."

He said off-licences were being targeted to ensure booze doesn't fall into the wrong hands: "New legislation allows us to confiscate booze from under-18s and tackle shopkeepers who sell the alcohol to youngsters."

Anyone is welcome to attend the free football session which starts at 6.30pm at Broadfield County Primary School.

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