Ray Mallon was a former head of Middlesbrough CID

Mr Mallon - once famed for bringing zero-tolerance style policing to the UK - made a vow six months ago to bring crime down in the town by 15% within a year.

On Wednesday he reported that crime had fallen 18% since October last year, with burglaries down 40% and car crime dropping by 36%.

Mr Mallon - who was effectively sacked by Cleveland Police after admitting to 14 disciplinary charges in February 2002 - used computer mapping techniques to target where offences were being committed.

'Promising start'

He also brought in a team of 40 street wardens to support police in their fight against anti-social behaviour.

In October last year, the mayor also promised to tackle "beggars" and prostitutes.

He has now promised tough action against people who drop litter.

Mr Mallon estimated there were 2,800 fewer victims of crime as a result of his policies.

"I know what we have done is only a start but it is a promising start," he said.

Mr Mallon won the mayoral elections last May promising a war on lawlessness.