THE number of reports of anti-social behaviour in St Helens has fallen by 45 per cent in the last two years, police figures have revealed.

Statistics show there were 7,468 incidents of anti-social behaviour in the town recorded from May 2, 2016 to May 1, 2017.

In the same period 12 months later, reports dropped to 5,004.

And one year on, between May 2, 2018 and May 1, 2019, the amount of reports went down again to 4,127.

The figures were provided after the Star sent a Freedom of Information request to Merseyside Police.

Community policing inspector Neil Birkett said: "Community police officers have been working hard to tackle antisocial behaviour in the St Helens area.

"We will continue to conduct targeted operations working in partnership with other agencies including housing associations to instigate closure orders and evictions where appropriate.

"There is of course more that can be done and in addition to the work that we continue to do with our partners we need the help of our communities.

“We must not be tolerant or accepting of any type of antisocial behaviour. Individuals must behave responsibly or face the consequences, and parents, carers and families must also be aware of their own responsibilities in discouraging this behaviour."

Inspector Birkett added: “If you have a problem in your area, we want people to report it.

"If you have information I want you to share it either to one of my team by speaking with your local officer or PCSO, by messaging @MerPolCC on Twitter or Merseyside Police CC on Facebook or by calling 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."