A DROITWICH Spa housing group has employed a specialist officer to deal with complaints of anti social behaviour.

Alan Moorhouse, of the Spa Housing Association, announced at the Westlands Forum meeting last week that Joanne Smith would now be dealing with the matter.

He said Joanne's position reflected the importance of anti social behaviour on the government's agenda.

The Anti Social Behaviour Act 2003 was created to address issues of youth nuisance, noise nuisance, graffiti, abandoned vehicles, criminal behaviour and harassment.

Alan urged anyone who has a complaint about any kind of anti social behaviour to contact the association's office, in Queen Street, for a confidential chat.

However, association colleague, Claire Boswell, pointed out all complaints must first go through one of the standard housing officers.

She said they could then decide whether or not the case was serious enough to be referred to Joanne.

"Jo could simply not deal with all complaints of anti social behaviour so they will have to come through us first," said Claire, at the meeting at Westlands Community Hall.

"She will only be dealing with the most serious cases."

Claire later added: "Both myself and my colleague Diane are very approachable for anyone wanting to discuss such matters."

Anyone who would like to speak to a housing officer about anti social behaviour should call Claire or Diane at the Royal Exchange office on 01905 823100.