Rose Hill is slowly - but surely - improving after the troubles of the past year, residents on the Oxford estate believe.

Last year, incidents including arson, assaults and vandalism were being reported almost every week.

But the situation has now improved, something residents credit to the new dispersal zone, increased police patrols and a crackdown on yobs.

The dispersal zone, launched in July, was renewed for another six months this week. And an antisocial behaviour order was imposed on tearaway Ricky Byles, banning him from the estate.

As reported, two police community support officers have been brought in to boost existing police patrols.

Reg Morley, of Lambourne Road, said: "We used to get gangs of up to 50 gathering near our house but now that seems to have eased off, so maybe the kids are getting the message.

"They've brought in this Asbo on the young lad. It's all a step in the right direction."

Former city councillor Bill Buckingham added: "You don't see the gangs about as much. I think the Asbos and so on have helped."

Community centre chairman Carol Davis also welcomed the new PCSOs and Ricky Byles' Asbo.

She added: "We all moan and groan that the police aren't doing anything, but that's a good start."

But she was disappointed that the dispersal zone boundary had not been widened.

She said: "It seems a bit silly to me that you can step from Nowell Road, which is in the dispersal zone, straight into Thames View Road and cause trouble there instead."

Area beat officer Pc Ben Henley, said: "We're delighted that local residents are appreciative of the work we're putting in and feel the estate has become a better place to live.

"Even though the estate is improving, we will continue to work hard to reduce the problems."