STREET warden Norman Barrow has been credited with cutting crime on a Malvern estate.

Figures released show that since Mr Barrow was recruited at the end of last year, he has made a "significant" contribution in reducing burglary and vehicle crime on the Langland estate.

The 54-year-old, who lives in Warndon Villages, Worcester, said his 37 years with the Gloucestershire Fire Service made him ideal for the job

"I do feel like I am making a difference to the community," said Mr Barrow. "But I am not a policeman - I am here to help the community become a better place for everyone.

"People now recognise me and come and talk to me - that is what the job is about."

Since 2001, vehicle crime has fallen by nearly eight per cent. In comparison, the nearby Chase Ward, which has no warden, saw a 44 per cent increase over the same period.

Vandalism

Chase Ward showed an 86 per cent increase in burglary while Langland saw just a four per cent rise.

Mr Barrow took on the job in November 2002 by beating off more than 60 other applicants. Since then he has become a hero to residents for fighting vandalism on the estate.

Sergeant Robert Werner de Sondberg said Malvern police maintained a close relationship with street wardens.

"Norman works very closely with beat manager Claire Baker in his position as Langland Street Warden.

"She gives regular briefings on problem areas which he can focus his patrols on, and he too passes on information which he feels may be of assistance," he said.

He added the scheme allows wardens to build strong relationships the community, even with some members who feel uncomfortable speaking with the police, but are more at ease speaking to a street warden.

In February, the Evening News reported how Mr Barrow hid behind a hedge to take photographs of a group of vandals who were attacking a house before chasing the gang away.

Clare Huyton, executive director of Elgar Housing Association, said they were delighted with the success and that the initiative appears to be making a real difference to people's lives.

"The figures buck local trends and show lower levels of some types of crime and anti-social behaviour order on Langland," she added.