NEW neighbourhood wardens are set to be patrolling Redditch streets to crack down on antisocial behaviour, crime and vandalism.

Funding of £30,000 has been earmarked for the first of the new council-employed wardens, who will act as "the eyes and ears of the community".

Redditch councillor and community safety portfolio holder Bill Hartnett said the wardens would work alongside police as the civilian equivalent of the force's community support officers.

"In the past, we've been restricted by limited police resources and crime hotspots have been identified purely by the police but this gives the council the opportunity to tackle other areas and issues," said Mr Hartnett.

He added the scheme was already running successfully in Bromsgrove and Kidderminster, where wardens not only help tackle crime but are also involved in youth schemes.

Bromsgrove's district support sergeant Mark Ashford, who also runs the Community Safety Group, said police viewed neighbourhood wardens as "part of the larger policing family".

He said the area's two wardens, employed in February 2004, worked alongside but independently of police.

"Neighbourhood wardens provide instant help with more minor criminal offences, such as graffiti or fly-tipping, to free up police officers dealing with more serious issues," he said.

"Although they don't have the power to arrest, they can act as professional witnesses and can often provide vital evidence."

Sgt Ashford said wardens seen patrolling the street were not only a visible crime deterrent but also provided reassurance.

"Members of the public feel safer and civilian wardens are more approachable than police, bridging the gap between police and public."

The scheme will be discussed at the town hall tomorrow.