Four new community wardens will be fighting back against the yobs thanks to a Government grant.

They will work to combat antisocial behaviour, vandalism and minor crimes in the Hollington area of Hastings from April.

Their job will also include improving the local environment and "reasserting community values".

The Government has promised Hastings Borough Council £146,000 to pay for the scheme.

It is part of £4.8 million announced by Home Office Minister Charles Clarke today to be spent on 175 community wardens across the country.

He said: "Neighbourhood wardens can make a real difference to the quality of life in our communities, playing a key part in tackling crime and the fear of crime.

"They will report broken street lights and pavements and offer support to vulnerable groups and crime victims.

"They will also help to settle minor incidents of antisocial behaviour and vandalism."

Hastings council leader Jeremy Birch said: "We are very pleased that we have succeeded with our bid to fund a team of neighbourhood wardens.

"This project is a major contribution to making local areas safer."