CRIME figures in a Ryedale town have dropped by 41 per cent - and a series of youth events have been cited as being partly responsible.

Pickering's mayor, Natalie Warriner, who has been working with the Youth Events Group during her mayoral year, said she was delighted at the news.

"A year ago the council was concerned about the amount of vandalism and anti-social behaviour in Pickering, which triggered my determination to do something about it," she said.

A dry pub has been opened in the bistro at The Black Swan Hotel where a range of equipment has been provided, including football games, pool table and a combined television and video unit.

An information board has also been fitted where young people can access advice and opportunities. Community safety officer Sergeant Cliff Edens said police had witnessed a significant drop in incidents involving young people since the programme of events had started. The latest success was a rock concert - Spink Fest - held on Saturday night at the Memorial Hall.

Coun Warriner, who helped 16-year-old Michael Spink organise the event, said more than 200 people were at the hall.

"I was very impressed. The young people's behaviour was exemplary and I was particularly pleased to see they had brought along their siblings and parents."

The Youth Events Group is a partnership between Ryedale Community Education, the district's Child and Youth project, police, and Pickering Community Partnership.

Discos are being held in alternate months as another entertainment attraction for the teenagers, and the town has a thriving Scout and Guide movement and a successful football club catering for more than 100 youngsters.

"A combination of all these things means that there's a great deal to help our young people," Coun Warriner said.

Updated: 11:59 Wednesday, January 22, 2003