Street crime has plummeted since a pioneering new drug treatment centre opened its doors, according to the centre's boss.

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

"Since the Castlebridge Centre, I am told that the level of street crime has dropped in Bishop Auckland, some say, quite dramatically," said Paul Walsh, the centre's clinical coordinator.

Mr Walsh was speaking at the Castlebridge Centre's official opening, held at Bishop Auckland Town Hall yesterday.

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

The £500,000 service brings together a wide range of statutory and voluntary services under one roof and should lead to a better service for residents across Wear Valley and Teesdale.

More than 440 people have been referred to the centre for help with their alcohol or drug addiction since last May and currently more than 100 people are receiving regular injections of the heroin substitute methadone on prescription.

While it will probably not be needed, the centre could legally prescribe heroin on the NHS under Home Office license.

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

Pride of place at the event went to Michael, 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 drug 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 its all down to the Castlebridge Centre."

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

The project involves staff from NECA (North East Council on Addiction) DISC's Orbit project, County Durham and Darlington Priority Services NHS Trust and County Durham Social Services. For information about services ring 0191 333 3382