Trafford police has joined forces with about 30 partner agencies in an attempt to make Old Trafford's Clifford Ward a safer place to live.

The two-week Beat Sweep' involves more than 20 police staff working alongside council workers and other community agencies in targeting criminals, untaxed cars, anti-social behaviour and litter in the area.

The operation is a response to a growing concern about the increase in gun and gang activities in Old Trafford during the last 12 months and particularly the Clifford ward that borders inner city Manchester.

It's the first Beat Sweep in Trafford and follows the success of previous operations in Rusholme, Salford and Stockport last year.

Week one of the operation is focused on enforcement' and five people were arrested and 21 cars were seized on day one alone this Monday.

"We've literally flooded the area with police officers and agency partners," said Chf Insp Neil Bhole, from Trafford police's partnership and justice team.

"As the title suggests the operation involves officers on the beat' who sweep' through the area, the benefits of being on foot are that it gives them time to chat to people while providing a very visible presence.

"But it's not just about the police it involves all partner agencies, members of the community and volunteers working together in a small geographical area to target people that are flouting the law.

"The operation is targeting the full range of criminal activity from fly tipping and litter through to the very hardened criminals."

He added: "The Clifford Ward has tended to be the area close to or associated with gun crime and gang activity.

"It's been identified as a vulnerable area that qualifies for Beat Sweep due to the levels of unemployment, crime and deprivation.

"But we also recognise there's a high level of opportunity in the area and we don't want to forget the people who really do want to make a difference.

"This is not just about the police it's about the community taking some responsibility and I'm pleased to say the response so far is that they certainly seem to be seizing the opportunity."

Ward Councillor Andrea Jones added: "The gang issue seemed to erupt quite suddenly and the joint action between the local authority, the community and the police is very welcome.

"Another key part of the response has been working together with communities across the border in places like Moss Side rather than treating this issue in isolation.

"Old Trafford is a very diverse area with different communities living together and that's its strength, making it a positive and fun place to live."

The second week of Beat Sweep, from next Monday, will focus on reassurance and a spring clean up of the area.

As part of this residents are invited to a special community reassurance day, at Shrewsbury Street Community Centre, from 12-5pm.