TWO new 'top cops' have pledged their joint commitment to reducing crime and anti-social behaviour in Blackburn.

Inspectors Mick Laraway and Ian McCann have taken charge of policing in Blackburn as geographic inspectors and are no strangers to Eastern Division.

Insp Laraway, 40, has 22 years service as a police officer and has spent time in Blackburn, Preston and Blackpool. He first began his career as a constable in Accrington where he worked for four years.

His specialist area is public order and he worked in the operational support services department at Hutton co-ordinating police resources for major operations throughout the county.

Insp McCann, 38, has 20 years service with the police. He has worked in a number of areas and was promoted to Darwen as a sergeant in 1995. He has been promoted to Blackburn from Central Division.

Insp McCann said: "There are real challenges to working in Blackburn as it is such a busy and vibrant town.

"One of the key areas I will be focusing on is the town centre and I have already been involved in the introduction of the BarU scheme with the licensees.

"I want to build on the good work that is already taking place to ensure that those people who live, work or visit Blackburn feel safe."

Chief Inspector Tracey O'Gara, officer in charge of Geographic Policing in Eastern Division said: "Both Mick and Ian are bringing new ideas and enthusiasm to Blackburn and we are looking forward to seeing the difference a fresh approach can make."