Figures from the Crime Reduction On Public Transport (CROPT) initiative shows that reported crime in Trafford fell by 20.8 per cent in 2007/08, compared to the previous year.

CROPT is a multi-agency initiative that develops targeted campaigns to tackle crime and disorder issues in specific areas across Greater Manchester.

Councillor Matthew Colledge, Chair of Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority and spokesperson for Trafford, said: “These figures reaffirm the fact that instances of crime on public transport are rare and that it is a safe way to travel.

“We now have a Patrol and Response Unit for the bus network and more safety officers than ever before are travelling on Metrolink. Our targeted initiatives and joint operations with Greater Manchester Police are also having the desired effect.”

Across Greater Manchester, the most significant results a show a 35 per cent drop in reported incidents at bus shelters and a 22 per cent drop on rail. The majority of incidents relate to criminal damage and vandalism.

At bus stations, there has been a 34 per cent decrease; on bus services there has been a 6 per cent decrease; and on Metrolink there has been a 23 per cent decrease.

Councillor Keith Whitmore, Vice Chair of GMPTA, added: “One of our key policy objectives for the next year is to improve security and safety so I am glad to see that our current initiatives are having a positive impact.

“We will continue to work closely with our partners in local authorities, Greater Manchester Police and the private sector to keep our network safe and secure.”