COMMUNITY participation in hundreds of events over the past 100 days has proved that people in Trafford really do have pride in where they live, say council chiefs.

The Trafford Partnership's 100 Days Campaign came to a close on March 24 with a free family fun day at Sale Leisure Centre.

This was the culmination of a three-month schedule jam-packed with events aimed at encouraging people of all ages to get involved in their local area.

The campaign has seen more than 460 events take place across Trafford with nearly 15,000 volunteers involved. As part of this, more than 500 bags of litter have been collected at litter picks attended by more than 650 people.

Other events included planting projects in parks, football matches organised for young people, and allotment open days.

The campaign culminated with the launch of the Street Champions scheme, which will recruit volunteers to report concerns to the council and other agencies on behalf of their community. Issues include graffiti, litter, abandoned vehicles, fly-tipping and any other anti-social behaviour that may affect the quality of life for visitors and residents to an area.

Trafford Council's acting chief executive Theresa Grant, who took part in a council-led project to refurbish Partington Community Hall, said: "The 100 Days Campaign has provided a snapshot of some of the hard work that goes on all year round in Trafford.

"It has given us the opportunity to celebrate the many volunteers who put a lot of time into making a difference in their community, while encouraging even more people to get involved, and I am absolutely delighted at what has been achieved.

"This is an exciting year for Trafford and I am sure the strong community pride we have seen demonstrated during the campaign will shine through this summer as we welcome visitors from around the world for the London 2012 Olympic Games."

During the 100 Day Campaign the Trafford Partnership took a strong stance on crime, which has decreased overall by 22 per cent over the past three months.

Chief Superintendent Mark Roberts, from Greater Manchester Police's Trafford Division, said: "By working with other agencies and communities in Trafford, we have achieved excellent reductions in both crime and the fear of crime.

"As well as encouraging others to get involved, the 100 Days Campaign showcased some of the excellent and selfless voluntary work that takes place across the borough on a daily basis.

"It is down to this community spirit and partnership working that Trafford remains one of the safest places in Greater Manchester to live, work and visit."