Anne Blewitt, from Grange Villa, near Chester-le-Street, receives the Taking a Stand award for helping to rid her village of a gang of drug dealers.

Dennis Maddison got so sick of yobs in Horden that he set up patrols of the streets and organised a clean-up.

The two will receive �1,000 from Home Office Minister Hazel Blears.

Youth disorder

Miss Blewitt is in her third year as chair of the Community Enterprise Group in Grange Villa.

About 18 months ago, residents were concerned that empty properties in the area were being occupied by problem tenants.

The village became a magnet for drug users and dealers and police said armed sieges, robberies, drug-related deaths and disorder became common events.

Miss Blewitt, 62, led a call for action against the dealers and police mounted an intensive operation which led to a number of arrests and convictions.

Also travelling to London for the award is Dennis Maddison who has helped tackle drug and alcohol misuse, fly tipping, youth disorder and criminal activity in Horden.

He was nominated by Andrew Bailey, anti-social behaviour officer at Easington District Council, who said Mr Maddison has helped to transform the village.

The Taking A Stand Awards are run by the Home Office in partnership with Crime Concern, the Co-op and BBC local radio.