Trouble shooting trio

The introduction of the wardens is part of the Arun District Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership.

Arun District Council stressed the wardens will not be a replacement or surrogate force, but a "deterrent to anti-social behaviour".

The scheme aims to provide a "reassuring, high profile authority presence" especially in some of the district's trouble hotspots.

Chairman of the partnership and Arun district councillor Roger Elkins, launched the scheme on Tuesday.

It has been introduced initially as a two-year pilot project with the 168,000 funding from the district council, West Sussex County Council, Sussex Police Authority, the Single Regeneration Budget and the Home Office.

Mr Elkins said: "Anti-social behaviour and minor incidents of community nuisance and vandalism have been highlighted in local consultations as being of major concern to our residents.

"The introduction of community wardens on a two-year trial basis will provide us with the opportunity to address these issues by working with the Sussex police and other agencies.

"I thank all partner organisations for their support."

Mr Elkins welcomed three full-time wardens who will be working with the local crime prevention officer.

Rustington-based company Global Security Management has been contracted to provide the service.

Part of their job will involve gathering accurate information and evidence at an early stage so appropriate action can be taken to reduce problems before they become serious.

District Commander Steve Whitton of Sussex Police said: "The police in the Arun district welcome the pilot scheme and look forward to a very positive and productive working relationship with the community wardens."

If the scheme is successful and funding found, it could be extended to at least 2004.

Residents will be asked to give their views and feedback on the wardens