Mother shares ASBO story with PM

Ms Holland's case was one of several national success stories

A Devon mother has shared her experience of dealing with anti-social behaviour with the prime minister at Downing Street.

Elaine Holland was among a group of people picked to attend a committee meeting, chaired by Tony Blair, discussing how to cope with offenders.

Her action against a gang on a Plymouth estate led to an anti-social behaviour order (Asbo) for the ringleader.

Ms Holland went on to start a helpline for victims of anti-social behaviour.

Youths would congregate in communal areas, creating fear among residents at the Flora Court Estate in Stonehouse, near Plymouth.

I did what any mum would do and that's protect her children. Elaine Holland

The turning point for Ms Holland came when her 13-year-old son described the gang leader as "cool".

She said: "I did what any mum would do and that's protect her children. I just think that something had to be done because things were getting out of hand here."

Ms Holland was the only resident willing to give evidence in court about the offences and allowed her property to be used by the police for surveillance.

When the gang started to target Ms Holland and her family, she said she would not be driven out of her home.

Respect drive

As a result of her action, a seven-year Asbo was secured by Plymouth City Council against the gang leader.

She used a £1,000 national award from a Home Office scheme Taking a Stand to launch the Plymouth Together Action Line Service (Petals) in September 2005 to give advice on combating anti-social behaviour.

Her story was shared with members of the committee, along with other successful efforts around the country.

The No 10 meeting was held to review Tony Blair's "Respect Action Plan".

Mr Blair launched the Respect drive in January promising to restore the liberty of law-abiding citizens.