Harlow's work in tackling anti-social behaviour was recognised today when the town was announced as a Respect Area. The Respect launch took place at the a specially rented shop in the Harvey Centre, where for the coming week residents will be able to drop in for information and advice, as well as see displays of confiscated items such as music systems and quad bikes.

Harlow's success in bidding for Respect Area status will mean £158,000 of funding to run a Family Intervention Project targeting the small number of families who cause disproportionate problems in the town, to employ a senior parenting practitioner and for parenting support training, and to run other projects throughout the year.