Anti-social behaviour in Walthamstow High Street has been reduced by 25 per cent in the last year, according to police.

The "quality of life" for people in the area, which has long been blighted by crime, has been vastly improved due a partnership between police, the council and volunteers, it is claimed.

Last month, the scheme was a awarded bronze level recognition in The Problem Orientated Partnership (POP) Awards after police received 285 less calls on anti-social behaviour in the last 12 months, compared to the same period the year before.

Measures to tackle anti-social behaviour in the area have included the creation of the Street Drinking Tasking Group, licensing teams, Anti-Socal Behaviour Team and Outreach Services.

Street drinkers in the area have been a particular problem.

Cllr Liaquat Ali, cabinet lead for community safety, said: “Tackling anti-social behaviour contributes to the council’s number one priority to make our community a safer place.

"Organisations from across the partnership, both statutory and voluntary, have worked tirelessly to address the problems associated with street drinking in Walthamstow High Street.

According to the latest figures from Crime UK, in October there were 18 offences of anti-social behaviour at Walthamstow bus station and only six in October.