CRIME and disorder groups met up for an informal reception at Ribble Valley Council chamber.

Hosted by the mayor, Coun Brian Collis, it was attended by more than 50 people charged with scrutinising the borough's crime hot-spots and suggesting new strategies to reduce disorder. It was the first such event since the crime and disorder strategy was put in place a year ago.

Insp Dale Allen, of Blackburn police, and Bill Alker, policy and development officer at the council, gave a presentation about the effects of the Crime and Disorder Act on the Ribble Valley's hot-spots: Clitheroe town centre, Longridge and Henthorn; and the three themes: drugs and alcohol, rural crime and road safety.

Supt Eddie Walsh, police commander for Eastern Division, also attended the reception.

Mr Alker said that the evening went very well and was a good chance for members of the six different groups to meet and discuss their work.

The mayor and Supt Walsh are pictured with other officials before the meeting.