A NEW drug dependency centre could become the blueprint for Britain's battle against petty crime.

Officials say they have seen a big drop in incidents of street crime since the centre opened last year.

Now the £500,000 service could become a template for future projects to tackle crime.

Since the Castlebridge Centre opened in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, last May, health bosses say it has already had an impact in Wear Valley.

Paul Walsh, the centre's clinical co-ordinator, said: "Since the Castlebridge Centre opened, the level of street crime has dropped in Bishop Auckland quite dramatically."

Research suggests much street crime is carried out by people to feed drug addiction.

More than 440 people have been referred for help with their addictions since the centre opened, and more than 100 people are receiving regular injections of the heroin substitute methadone on prescription.

Many people only need support, counselling and alternative therapy, such as acupuncture, to help them on the road to recovery.

The centre was officially opened at a ceremony last week.

Pride of place at the event went to Michael Russett, a 29-year-old service user, who said treatment had turned his life around.

He received an ovation from health workers and guests when he told them: "A year ago, I abused drugs and alcohol, and was in a mess. I felt depressed, a failure and totally lost.

"Now, I am starting to believe in myself again, I am in the process of becoming a successful businessman, I have regained control of my life, and it is all down to the Castlebridge Centre."

The centre is funded by Durham Dales Primary Care Trust, Neighbourhood Renewal Funds, the New Opportunities Fund, County Durham Drug Action Team, County Durham Social Services, Teesdale District Council and Wear Valley District Council.

Chief Superintendent Robin Trounson, who attended the event, said: "I cannot confirm whether there has been a drop in crime in Bishop Auckland, but we know that people commit crime to get drugs and if we can break that cycle, there is evidence that this will reduce crime."