Plymouth is to receive nearly �100,000 from the government to fight crime in the city.

The council is to take on the role of leading a joint effort by local agencies to tackle problems like burglary, drug abuse and anti-social behaviour.

The move comes as law and order is expected to be at the centre of the Queen's Speech on Wednesday.

Tony Blair has said vandalism, graffiti, litter and other low-level crimes are "probably the biggest immediate issue for people in the country".

Crack facts

Sold as small crystals to smoke Each "rock" costs �20 to �25 Addictive and causes heart problems Can cause paranoia and aggression

Plymouth intends to use the Home Office cash to continue the anti-burglary scheme called Homesafe and the Treads project which helps turn young people off car crime.

Several thousand pounds has also been given for youth initiatives in Southway and Plympton.

Plymouth has already received �400,000 this year to tackle drugs crime.

In September this year police reported a five-fold increase in the amount of crack cocaine on the streets of Devon and Cornwall.

Police estimate there are about 250 crack dealers or users in Plymouth.

Devon and Cornwall Police now have staff solely looking at the problems the drug is creating.