Respect to Sharon for Taking a Stand DRUG dealing and anti-social behaviour was part of every day life in Sharon Barter's neighbourhood.

Neighbours' lives were made a misery by a family from hell who would verbally abuse and threaten people, throw stones at their property, write obscene graffiti on their houses and push disgusting items through their letterboxes.

But the gutsy mum from Mandale Road, West Howe, took a stand against the yobs by working with police and the local authority to clean up her estate.

And this week the Bourne-mouth mum was named top in the South West and Wales region in the government's Respect Awards for Taking a Stand which recognise the commitment, energy and courage of members of the public who have made real improvements in their communities.

She was presented with her award by Home Secretary John Reid and the Government's co-ordinator for Respect Louise Casey at an awards ceremony in London.

Sharon bravely offered to give evidence to obtain an order against the family and encouraged and supported other neighbours to give evidence even after the perpetrators put up posters giving her address details and naming her as "the biggest grass on the estate".

Complaints about anti-social behaviour in Sharon's road decreased dramatically after the nuisance neighbours were banned from entering the estate. She now plans to spend her £1,000 award money on setting up a support group to help other victims of anti-social behaviour overcome their fears and follow her lead.

Home Secretary John Reid said: "I am heartened that every day more and more members of the public are working with police and local councils right across the country to take action against anti-social behaviour and stand up for the rights of the law-abiding majority.

"The Respect awards for Taking a Stand celebrate their bravery, courage and determination."