Cities in America are set to learn from Preston police and council staff about how to sort out unruly neighbourhoods following an award-winning project on the crime-hit Callon estate.

The Return of the Happy Shopper project was runner-up in the Government's Tiley awards for efforts in tackling crime and anti-social behaviour. Council officials and the police won a trip to Charlotte, North Carolina, to attend a conference on tackling anti-social behaviour.

The project started in 2003 when Preston police and the city council teamed up with the owners of the Happy Shopper which was experiencing high levels of theft, racism and general anti-social behaviour.

It was the only shop on the estate at that time which was then in the top two per cent of deprived communities in England.

Within two years thefts at the store had declined by 90 per cent, and revenue increased by 600 per cent.

The secret behind the success was forming groups like Callon Community Action, installing street wardens and giving youngsters something to do according to Councillor Carl Crompton, executive member for housing.

He added: "Now the estate feels a much safer place and the shop is once again a focal point for the local community. We're pleased to work with the police, members of the community and other partners on this innovative scheme."

Ten Anti-Social Behaviour Orders and 20 Acceptable Behaviour Contracts were handed out, and there were three high profile evictions.

PC Gary Salisbury said: "Before the partnership started the estate was a real hot spot for crime and anti-social behaviour.

"We've taken a zero tolerance approach, and it's paid off as general crime has reduced by around 80 per cent and racially related crime by 100 per cent."