The estate was once plagued by crime

Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott honoured the Grange Park estate when he awarded the Sustainable Communities Award at a ceremony on Tuesday.

Seven years ago the estate had so many crime problems extra police patrols were deployed to the area.

Now it has new housing, a community learning centre and public open spaces.

The people of Grange Park have given up their time and it is their energy that has driven forward this project Councillor Sue Wright

The town beat off competition from 256 entrants across the UK.

Councillor Sue Wright, who worked on the regeneration project, said it was "wonderful news."

"The deputy prime minister said the project was a fantastic example of partnership working and the council, the police and fire service all had to be congratulated because together we have all made a difference and improved the quality of life for people living in the community.

"The people of Grange Park have given up their time and it is their energy that has driven forward this project."

The award's judging panel visited Blackpool and said it has shaken off its poor image, poor educational standards, high unemployment rates and social and environmental problems.

Mr Prescott and Tony Blair have been in Manchester this week for the "Building Sustainable Communities" conference.