The 'Taking a Stand'
Awards 2005
People who are determined to take a stand against anti-social
behaviour can make a real difference. They can help transform their
neighbourhood and their community.
Recognising the commitment, energy and courage of local heroes
is a key part of the National campaign to tackle and not tolerate
anti-social behaviour.
Today, we want to celebrate the achievements of our local
heroes, ordinary people who have done extraordinary things to
improve their local community.
Their stories are an inspiration, they are people who have
witnessed anti social behaviour and gathered evidence in order for
action to be taken. They have set up residents' groups,
Neighbourhood Watch schemes or worked with young people to reduce
anti-social behaviour.
Whatever they have done, we hope that the experiences of 'our'
Local heroes will inspire others to 'Take a stand.'
Taking a Stand Award - Stainburn School - 'The Mortal
Crew'
In recognition of the work carried out by Val Chicken and pupils
from the school, who have educated other children about the issues
surrounding anti social behaviour. Assisted by Val Chicken the
pupils formed The Mortal Crew, a group which researched the subject
of anti social behaviour and how this can have a negative impact on
others lives. This research was developed in to a 'theatre in
education' performance and was delivered to over 250 other pupils
from schools across the Allerdale area. The performance delivered a
positive message which deplored the way some young people behave
and offered alternatives to being involved in anti-social
behaviour. This project was so successful it is now to be repeated
in other schools across West Cumbria
Taking a Stand Award - Salterbeck Tenants and Residents
Association 
In recognition of the action taken by the members of the
Association in tackling crime and disorder within the Salterbeck
Estate. Ten years ago Salterbeck was regarded as one of the worst
housing estates in the area. The levels of crime and nuisance being
committed on the estate meant that residents had reached the point
where they felt action had to be taken.
Over the last ten years the Association has worked with many
agencies to transform the estate into an area which now has lower
levels of crime and disorder. This has required great fortitude and
leadership.
The members of the Association have raised awareness of crime
and disorder issues within the estate and have encouraged residents
to take action against the perpetrators of crime and disorder,
resulting in real improvements to the quality of life on the
estate.
Taking a Stand Award - Mr Gary Banks
In recognition, of the action taken by Mr Gary Banks, in his
role as CCTV operator, in the town of Workington. Mr Banks has
adopted a pro-active approach in the use of the CCTV system within
the town. This approach has led to high quality video evidence
being produced, which in turn has led to the conviction of numerous
offenders who have operated within Workington town centre.
The evidence he has gathered has been used to identify
shoplifters, violent offenders, drug dealers and those involved in
acts of anti-social behaviour. Most recently Mr Banks has gathered
evidence which has assisted in a Anti Social Behaviour Order being
granted against a notorious town nuisance.
Mr Banks is held in high regard by his police colleagues. His
pro-active manner is making a significant contribution to fighting
crime and anti-social behaviour within Workington town.
This year the award ceremony has been kindly sponsored by:
- ASB Solicitors
- Copeland Homes
- Impact Housing
- The Cumberland Building Society
- Richardsons Wine Merchants.
- The Hunday Manor Hotel
We would like to thank all of our sponsors as without their kind
donations this event would not have been possible.