WINCHESTER civic chiefs are hailing the success of a warden scheme introduced on a city estate in February.

The city council believes the three neighbourghood wardens have helped tackle antisocial behaviour and fostered a positive community spirit in Highcliffe. Wardens are set to work in Stanmore from this summer.

Financial constraints make it currently unlikely that the scheme will be expanded, said a council report.

However, city councillor Chris Pines, who proposed the initial scheme after the

success of a similar one in Southampton, will press for more money to be put aside to fund its expansion into Winnall, Weeke, the city centre and surrounding villages.

Cllr Pines said: "It has gone brilliantly. It has been really exciting for Highcliffe. It has been totally positive, from things like litter-clearing to problem hedges, speaking to youngsters, finding out what they want, liaising with the police and fire service.

"A lot of people in Winnall are keen on having it.

"The money side is a question of political will. There is money in the town forum account that could pay for two more wardens next year."

Bob Merrett, director of communities, was cautious about whether the scheme could be expanded because of the council's difficult financial position.

"We can never say never. I know a lot of people in Winnall want it. We need to take stock first," he said.

Mr Merrett said the wardens had talked to more than 100 youngsters about projects.

"It is providing them with a good outlet, an alternative way of living.

"Things that were happening because the kids were bored are not happening so much. There is a growth in social cohesion."

The report had a breakdown of incidents reported so far: removal of drugs paraphernalia (one), reported drug use (one), antisocial behaviour (11), abandoned cars (three) fly-tipping (six), litter (27) abandoned trolleys (30) untaxed vehicles (eight) graffiti (ten) overgrown hedges (four), vandalism (11).