TEIGNBRIDGE is leading the way in tackling yobs and anti-social behaviour, according to the district's top policeman.

Police Superintendent Jim Meakin joined Teignbridge councillor Marie Jenkins to speak out after Chief Inspector of Constabulary Denis O'Connor said not enough was being done by police forces nationwide to understand the menace of anti-social behaviour.

Mr O'Connor said the recording of information about harassment, criminal damage and verbal abuse was 'inadequate' and must be improved immediately.

But the council and police say the partnership approach in Teignbridge is working 'extremely well' and is held up as an example of good practice.

Both organisations are part of the South Devon and Dartmoor Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership which aims to drive down anti-social behaviour.

They say figures show overall recorded crime dropped every year for the past five years, and a public survey showed almost 80 per cent of local people believe police and the council are dealing with the issue well.

Mr Meakin said: "We continue to work very effectively with our communities and other partners to develop solutions to respond to the concerns about anti-social behaviour in our community.

"If people do have concerns, we want to know about them."

Cllr Jenkins, Teignbridge Council's executive member for communities, said: "We know Teignbridge is a very safe place to live and work, but in common with many places there is a higher fear of crime which isn't in proportion with the amount of crime actually committed.

"With that said, we're acutely aware of the impact that crime and anti-social behaviour can have on someone's life, especially when it's on a repeat basis.

"That's why we're taking really strong action to stamp out problems when they arise."