POLICE will send details of crimes out as ‘Tweets’ using social networking site Twitter.

Lancashire Constabulary has set up its own page on the popular instant messaging site to try and reach a ‘broader audience’.

The force says it will distribute crime messages and recruitment news to target younger generations in particular.

The aim is to inform the public about what officers are up to across the county and in their towns and villages.

The force has already used other social networking sites such as Facebook and YouTube to put out appeals and it is hoped Twitter will provide the people of Lancashire with instant and timely information about events, problems and crimes that matter to them.

Acting Deputy Chief Constable Wendy Walker said: "More and more people are using social networking sites as an easy, instant form of communication they can trust and we want to embrace that.

“Social networking sites like Twitter present us with a fun way of reaching out to more people and proactively interacting with our communities.

"Through this online site we hope that younger generations in particular will become more involved with policing in their areas and gain a better understanding of what we do and how they can help us make their neighbourhoods safer."

“Our presence on Twitter is yet another way for members of the public to communicate with us.

"PACT meetings, neighbourhood surgeries and community events will continue as normal."

Police want 'followers' to help them fight crime as well as receive updates on incidents and other issues.

To follow Lancashire Police please go to www.twitter.com/LancsPolice.