City's cash for youth crime fight

Bristol is to receive up to £700,000 over two years as part of a government initiative to tackle youth crime.

The announcement of the funding - which targets 69 local authorities in England - follows publication of the Youth Crime Action Plan in June.

This sets out a range of measures aimed at tackling youth crime including enforcement and prevention.

Prime inner city areas are selected for help on the basis of youth crime, deprivation and anti-social behaviour.

Bristol will receive an immediate £65,000 to be spent this year on street-based teams, after-school patrols and Operation Staysafe, or on providing intensive support for families.

A further £25,000 will also be available to provide positive activities for young people on Friday and Saturday nights in communities where crime and anti-social behaviour are a particular concern.

Councillor Derek Pickup said: "Anti-social behaviour by young people is a major concern for people in Bristol, as it is in towns and cities across the country and the announcement of extra funding to help tackle the problem is welcome news."