A COMMUNITY sports club is helping to cut levels of crime in the Padgate area.

Padgate Sports Club was set up in February last year in response to a spate of anti-social behaviour targeting residents, businesses, Padgate Library and Padgate Academy.

Since then, incidents have reduced by a total of 35 per cent – with 14 different families having engaged in sporting activities.

Livewire sports community and engagement officer Paul Flannery said: “Livewire has made a really positive impact in the Padgate area with this weekly session that offers a range of sports and games for young people to get involved in.

“We look forward to continuing to work with police and other local partners in the coming months to continue to break down barriers in the local area.”

A grant from Cheshire police and crime commissioner David Keane has helped to fund regular weekly drop-in sessions for young people and their families at Fearnhead Cross Community and Youth Centre on Insall Road, which aim to reduce anti-social behaviour and criminal damage.

Mr Keane said: “It is clear to see from these statistics how much of a difference this project is having on the local community.

“Austerity has caused youth activities outside of schools to be decimated, which has left our young people with nothing to do but cause trouble on our streets.

“Organisations like Livewire are working tirelessly to provide activities which give young people a focus and the ability to develop discipline and respect.”

The drop-in sessions run from 4pm to 5pm on Tuesdays in the outdoor multi-use sports area opposite Padgate Library.