A community development worker has been recruited to help transform an area once branded as being "in despair".

Ali Mantle has been appointed to help improve Frizinghall, near Shipley, through a £25,000 grant from the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund.

Today she said she wanted to get everyone, young and old, involved in the community's regeneration.

"I have worked in this area for the past few years and I know the area, and what its needs and problems are," she said.

"The idea for a dedicated development worker came from the Frizinghall Partnership, which was set up in 1999 and is made up of people working or living here who want to see an improvement.

"We got £25,000 from the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and the Action Planning Scheme and it was decided by this group that the best way of spending the money was to employ someone rather than spend the money on facilities."

Ms Mantle said policing and crime were major issues for residents.

"We have had some success with that already due to increased policing and a CCTV camera which traders say has reduced crime and acts of vandalism."

Another major issue, she said, was lack of facilities for young people.

"An outdoor games area will be built later this year next to Frizinghall Community Centre and there will be a consultation of residents in March to get ideas on what to do," she said

She also wants to set up a neighbourhood warden scheme.

"I just want to get people from the schools, churches and mosques, as well as the community centre, involved in moving Frizinghall forward. I am based in Frizinghall and will be out and about. Anyone with ideas or views are welcome to get in contact."

Councillor David Ford (Green, Shipley) said the area had already improved since last year.

"Certainly there are things happening. There was an area of derelict garages which had seen a lot of vandalism and they have been razed to the ground.

"There are going to be more sports facilities to target younger people who have said there is nothing for them to do. But one of the most positive things to happen is the employment of the community worker."

He added that Frizinghall Primary School had received a very good Ofsted report for its educational achievements and its work in the community.

"I'm not saying there are no problems in Frizinghall but they are being addressed," he said.

Frizinghall resident Gillian Wright said she welcomed Ms Mantle's new role.

"It's a good idea to have someone dedicated to the area. Ali knows about the history of the area so she is ideal. I just hope that people from all different communities will come together to make a go of the area."

Ms Mantle can be contacted on (01274) 437146 or via e-mail on ali.mantle@bradford.gov.uk