Security officers helped cut crime and antisocial behaviour at bus stations in Greater Manchester by more than 50 per cent last year, according to the latest statistics.

An average of two incidents a day were reported to Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) during September and October, compared to more than four a day over the same period in 2006.

A Patrol and Response Unit was set up in Autumn 2006 as part of a new crackdown on troublemakers. The security officers board more than 100 buses, and spend more than 50 hours patrolling bus stations, each week.

Michael Renshaw, GMPTE's Interim Service Delivery Director, said: "I'm pleased that the Patrol and Response Unit has helped to cut bus station crime and antisocial behaviour by a half but there's still more work to be done.

"We're determined to make sure that passengers feel safe while they wait for a bus. The security officers are able to respond to calls quickly and deal with people who cause a nuisance.

"They have helped to reassure passengers that they can travel safely on the local bus network. I'm sure their presence will continue to discourage people from causing trouble in the future."

The Patrol and Response Unit is funded by GMPTE and the Greater Manchester Bus Operators Association. The majority of incidents the security officers attend involve antisocial behaviour, including nuisance and petty crime.

GMPTE's bus station staff reported 101 incidents of crime and antisocial behaviour between 11 September and 31 October last year, compared to 213 incidents during the same period in 2006. Passengers who witness an incident at a bus station should contact a member of staff or call 0161 244 1000.

The Crime Reduction On Public Transport (CROPT) partnership was set up in 2006 to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour on buses, trains and trams in Greater Manchester. Representatives from GMPTE, local public transport operators, the police and local government regularly meet to discuss the latest issues and initiatives.