A TEAM of police officers have been given a mission to tackle youth crime in the St Matthew's area of Preston.

The four constables -- PCs Mark Weardon, Brian Woods, Martin Walters and Tom McLoughlin -- have been given the a task of finding long-term solutions to juvenile crime, under the watchful eye of the local police inspector.

Cash from the town's single regeneration budget was earmarked for the project in April.

Theft from vehicles, criminal damage and domestic burglary have been identified as problems to tackle.

PC McLoughlin said: "By working with local schools and other agencies such as the probation service, social services and youth services, we will be trying to break down the invisible barriers of communication that sometimes exist between children and the police.

"We will be getting involved with several projects, such as football tournaments and outward bound activities.

"We have already introduced more foot patrols in the area and the team will soon be taking to two wheels, thanks to local firm, Sutcliffes, for supplying four bicycles, and Halford's for providing us with helmets and other cycle equipment."