NEIGHBOURS intimidated by rowdy louts are being offered support by an innovative crime-busting Witness Support Service.

Housing officers are being urged to refer people who have witnessed anti-social behaviour to the scheme being run in Farnworth and Little Hulton.

The Witness Support team of trained volunteers and officers offers practical help and emotional support to witnesses of crime in the community and in courts.

They also support residents who have seen an incident and do not know whether to report it.

The service is funded by Little Hulton and Farnworth Partnership.

Joint Project Manager Richard White and Witness Support Officer Maureen Mather are speaking to housing staff to develop the new branch of the service.

Sue Forster, Witness Support co ordinator, said: "We are developing a good working relationship with housing officers to ensure that any witnesses to anti-social behaviour are referred to us, so that we can offer continued support before any court cases."

The Little Hulton and Farnworth scheme is an extension of the Witness Support initiative launched in 1995 and now used as a blueprint for similar projects nationwide.

Police refer crime witnesses to the service. Nurses, social workers and other public service staff and volunteers are also encouraged to advise potential witnesses to contact the Support group.

However, more volunteers are need for the Witness Support Service teams covering the Farnworth and Little Hulton areas.

Anyone interested should telephone 0161 793 7333.