A CRACKDOWN on poaching in the River Ribble has been launched by the police and the Environment Agency.

The authorities say the problem of illegal fishing in the river has escalated in recent years and rewards are being offered to anyone who helps to snare poachers.

Anyone who rings the police's Crimestoppers line with information which leads to a conviction could net a reward under the initiative.

The Ribble Fisheries Association is also also backing the new crackdown and a publicity campaign is being planned.

Steve Whittam from the Environment Agency's Fisheries Enforcement Section said: "This new campaign fits in with our intelligence led approach to enforcement. Any information given will be followed up and if successful prosecution results, the Ribble Fisheries Association has set aside funds so that rewards may be paid.

"It is only by working in partnership that we can have an impact on such problems."

Keith Spencer, the chairman of the association, said: "We have invested a lot of time and money in ensuring that the Ribble is a productive location for the genuine angler.

"Poachers can have an adverse affect on the stocks in the river and rob the dedicated anglers of their pleasure."

He added: "We are happy to be working with the Environment Agency and the police and I would anyone who has any information about those involved ion poaching to contact Crimestoppers."

The free-phone confidential Crimestoppers line is on 08000 555111.