Coun. Charlie Briggs will be heading the initiative workting with a number of agencies to tackle anti-social behaviour head-on.

With the Liberal Democrats having taken full control of the council, Coun. Birtwistle said he felt it was one of the biggest problems in the town.

"We have had a lot of people complaining about anti-social behaviour within the town," said Coun. Birtwistle. "It is something we definitely have to get to grips with. We have had a go at it but we still have problems with young kids causing havoc and yobs hanging around on street corners.

"Charlie actually suggested the idea and we think it's fantastic. He is unbelievably enthusiastic and has got some really good ideas. He will be working with the police, the fire service and other agencies to help combat the issue."

The Executive is now made up entirely of Liberal Democrats and comprises: Coun. Birtwistle (leader); Coun. Margaret Lishman (resources); Coun. Roger Frost (environment); Coun. Charles Bullas (leisure and culture); Coun. Martin Smith (regeneration); Coun. Jeff Sumner (customer access and community engagement); and Coun. Briggs (combating anti-social behaviour).

Coun. Birtwistle added: "We want to carry on improving and redouble our efforts. The prosperity of the town is very important to us. We have had two years and we want to continue with what we have been doing."