MP is calling all the heroes

From the Swindon Advertiser, first published Saturday 11th Sep 2004.

THE SEARCH is on for local heroes who are not afraid to stand up to yobs causing havoc in their neighbourhoods.

Swindonians have until the end of the month to enter nominations for the Taking A Stand awards.

And South Swindon MP Julia Drown says the borough has plenty of community stalwarts worthy of the title.

Ms Drown said: "Anti-social behaviour is a scourge that affects all parts of the country, and Swindon is no exception.

"It not only costs a huge amount of money to deal with, but carries an unacceptable social cost for the many people whose lives are being ruined.

"The brave people who are taking steps to tackle anti-social behaviour should be commended.

"If you know anyone who is taking a stand please nominate them for an award."

The scheme is run by the Home Office in partnership with the Co-op and BBC local radio.

They recognise individuals and groups who have tackled problems such as loutish behaviour, vandalism, nuisance neighbours, graffiti, harassment, intimidation and fly-tipping. One hundred winners will receive £1,000 to support their work, while the overall winner will get £5,000. Training and support will also be offered.

The deadline for nominations is September 28. Readers can nominate their heroes by calling 0800 085 2980 or visiting www.takingastand.org.

A ceremony for the winners will be held in December.

According to the Home Office, an incident of anti-social behaviour is reported every two seconds in England and Wales.

The problem appears to be escalating, and costs £13.5m a day to deal with.

It is a major drain on police resources in Swindon, and the Advertiser has recently reported problems in Toothill, Freshbrook, Stratton and Highworth.

Police have been forced to impose several dispersal orders ­ the latest being in Toothill and Freshbrook.

These give officers the power to break-up unruly gangs.

Anti-social behaviour orders have also been used to ban yobs from areas of their neighbourhood.

Could you act like a real thug?

A SWINDON film company is searching for actors for a new production called Anti-Social Behaviour.

Plexus 7 is keen to hear from anyone with an interest in acting who wants to take part.

The plot revolves around Alan Richards, a lonely old man living in a run down house on a Swindon council estate.

He is tormented by yobs, but after weeks of aggravation starts plotting a grisly revenge.

Gradually the youths begin to disappear.

Anyone wanting to take part should send an audition on video to the company.

Vince Pike, of Plexus 7, said: "We have had a fantastic response from people who heard of the project via the internet.

"We have currently had around 100 youths apply online.

"All seem very excited about the film and are eager to be a part of it."

For further details, visit www.plexus7.co.uk.

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