CRIME has fallen in Ramsbottom, Tottington and North Manor, according to latest police statistics.

There was a decrease in most crimes in the January 1 to December 31, 2010 period when compared with 2009.

Burglaries of garages and sheds was the only exception, of which there were 23 more last year than in 2009.

Household burglaries saw a 25 per cent drop compared to 2009 and 50 per cent compared to 2008 — equating to 65 fewer burglary victims.

Inspector Bryn Williams, of the Ramsbottom and Tottington neighbourhood policing teams, said residents had been taking extra precautions. He said: “Naturally, I am pleased to see a further decrease in crime and anti-social behaviour in the area. I believe that a combination of factors are responsible for the reduction.

“Residents have improved their security and taken on board crime prevention advice. This year more residents have purchased timer switches to illuminate their home during the dark evenings, when the house is unoccupied.

“In addition, the police have continued to focus on local target offenders to disrupt criminal activity and bring them to justice at the earliest opportunity.”

The number of household burglaries fell from 86 in 2009 to 64; robbery was down from 20 to 12; theft from motor vehicles dropped from 177 to 93; and theft of motor vehicles decreased from 48 to 34.

In 2010 there were 279 fewer incidents of rowdiness; 78 fewer vehicle nuisances; and six more incidents involving neighbours, compared with 2009.

Insp Williams added: “Anti-social behaviour figures continue to fall. The speed of the decline, in many ways, has been quite remarkable and is due to continued police focus, working alongside partner agencies and the attitude of the current generation of young people. It is clear to me that we have made a huge impact into the ‘Friday night’ culture of street drinking amongst the younger generation and they no longer seem intent on emulating their older peers.”

Contact the neighbourhood policing team on 0161 856 8025.