BRIDGWATER Neighbourhood Police Team has made it to the final three of the Avon and Somerset Police PCC's Pride Awards for team of the year.

Inspector Joe Piscina says the team has been recognised for their outstanding work in cracking down on anti-social behaviour in the town centre, as well its partnership work in urban community.

PCSO Billy Cooper is also up for an individual award for his great work going above and beyond to help people in the town.

"It is fantastic to be nominated by members of the public for these awards and a real testament to what the team has achieved in the last year or so," Insp Piscina said.

"As has been reported the town centre team has done some really good work reducing anti-social behaviour. There was a real problem last summer but in recent months we have seen reports of anti-social behaviour reach record lows.

"PC Dominic Bryant and the team have worked closely with the town council, businesses and members of the public, listening to concerns and addressing concerns."

Insp Piscina said that Bridgwater police had also had success in the residential areas as well as the town centre.

"There are three Together Teams that have been set up that seem to be making a real difference. These have been set up in Sydenham, South Bridgwater and one which covers the rest of the town," Insp Piscina said.

The Together Teams include local authorities, emergency services and housing and social services among others.

"This allows better interconnected working so that problem cases can be flagged up and dealt with by the right organisation," Insp Piscina said.

"Before these issues weren't always being shared between organisations and the improvement in communication is helping us tackle issues that arise in the community."

PCSO Billy Cooper is also made it to the final three in the Neighbourhood Police Officer of the Year category.

"PCSO Cooper has shown great initiative and played a vital role in the the work tackling anti-social behaviour and getting licence revoked from a problematic shop," Insp Piscina said.

"He has shown a variety of extra skills which go well beyond the remit of a PCSO."

Insp Piscina says despite the cuts affecting forces nationwide, the Bridgwater team is actually in a decent position.

He said he has also been pleased with the progress shown at the 999 Academy at Bridgwater and Taunton College, which has been renewed for a second year with 20 students passing their qualifications this year.