In the first of a series of focus pieces about the nominations we are looking at the crack team of police, housing and community safety experts who reached out to people from one of the most deprived areas in the country.

The Marsh Green Co-Located Team in Wigan thought it was best to ask the people what they wanted to see done, so sent out a survey before drawing up their plan of action.

When the results of the survey came back they focused on the issues highlighted by residents and after clamping down on off-road bikes, anti social behaviour and cleaning graffiti and litter from the streets, a community which once had little faith in the authorities is now getting much more involved and enthusiastic about its own future.

As a result the team's work is now held up as an example to others across Greater Manchester.

Inspector Bob Pell, who nominated the team, said: "The estate was suffering disproportionate levels of crime and the community had low expectations and confidence in the police and other agencies to deal with the issues affecting their lives.

"As a result there was little or no community engagement or participation and the estate was stagnant.

"But the team have consistently demonstrated their commitment to the local community. This has led to a significant increase in community confidence, so much so that the community representatives now actively participate in the problem solving processes and other residents have expressed an interest in becoming police volunteers on the estate."

He said the increased confidence meant that more information was coming in to help the authorities to nip problems in the bud.

PC Andrew Finch, 47, one of those on the team based at Marsh Green library, said: "It is nice to be appreciated.

"I hope what we have done has made a difference to people's quality of life."

The team put together good behaviour contracts for youngsters who were causing problems and youth workers were brought in to ensure they were given positive ways to use their time.

Local youngsters were also asked to design the logo for the team's office.

Meanwhile residents were encouraged to become involved in problem solving committees to tackle issues like homelessness, bogus callers and anti social behaviour. They were also given access to help and advice on issues including finance.

Gates were also put up on alleyways to stop them being used by fly tippers and shopkeepers were given the chance to join a radio network to share information on trouble causers.

Work was also done to cut back trees, clean chewing from the floor, boost the CCTV coverage in the area and target drug dealers and those selling alcohol to under age drinkers.

Martin Duerden, vicar at St Barnabas Church in Moss Green said: "I have been here about nine months now and I have been very impressed with the way they have been working with the community.

"The people I speak to have been very positive about the work they have done and would like to see it continue."

The other members of the team are Kathryn Walsh of Wigan and Leigh Housing, PC Jennifer Reeve and Gareth Winstanley of Wigan Community Safety Unity Anti Social Behaviour Team.