PEOPLE in Lancashire are being urged to help the police in the fight against knife crime.

Crimestoppers wants anyone who works with young people in the community to pass on information if they find out about them carrying knives.

This initiative comes after the charity ran a texting service last year as part of the Government's Tackling Knives Action Programme so that pupils could report peers carrying blades.

The charity has now decided to extend the appeal to take in people who have regular contact with young people.

Kay Armstrong, Crimest-oppers co-ordinator for Lanc-ashire Police, said: "By passing on information about those carrying a knife, you could be helping to prevent a devastating crime and saving a life.

"We know that some young people carry a knife because they feel it is a form of protection, but in many cases it's used against them.

"Help protect the young people in our community – tell us what you know, not who you are."

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said: "We are determined to do everything we can to get weapons off our streets and everyone, including the public, has a role to play.

"Our message is clear – if you know someone who is carrying a knife, you have a responsibility to pass the information on.”

People can pass on information by calling 0800 555 111 or via the online 'giving information' form on www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Anyone who uses the Crimestoppers service remains anonymous at all times, calls are not traced or recorded and no personal details are taken.