A FESTIVE crime-busting campaign has got under way in Hyndburn.

The Keep Safe and Secure initiative has been launched with the aim of cutting the Christmas crime rate.

In December last year, police in Hyndburn received reports of 47 domestic burglaries, 68 vehicle crimes, 11 thefts and one robbery.

The campaign has been organised by the Hyndburn Community Safety Partnership, which consists of Lancashire County Council, Hyndburn Council, Lancashire Constabulary and others.

It will feature a week-long safety and security exhibition in Broadway, Accrington, where residents can obtain information packs containing advice on how to stay safe at home and while out and about.

Free leaflets will detail tips on how to reduce the risk of crime.

Inspector Phil Cottam, Accrington's police chief, said: "As people are aware we are currently running our high profile town centre operation.

"However, in the run-up to Christmas there are always those individuals in society looking out for the opportunity to spoil someone else's Christmas.

"I welcome all the other efforts from the partnership to alleviate that problem. My advice to members of the public is to ensure at all times they take reasonable steps to ensure the safety on their property and themselves while they are out and about in the run-up to the festive period."

The scheme was launched yesterday and the exhibition will be on every day this week from 10am and 4pm.