A TOWN centre community aims to forge closer links with police to drive out fear of intimidation.

The Albert Street Residents' Association, Burnley, will hold a public meeting with community officers next month to voice neighbourhood concerns and iron out problems.

Coun Mrs Carole Barber, spokesman for the association - which represents residents on the central area housing action area - says the meeting is a first and a breakthrough for local police and resident relations.

She said the neighbourhood, like others, suffered from drug, neighbourhood nuisance and the fear of crime.

"Residents are frightened of talking to police because of fear of future intimidation.

"They need to have the confidence to be able to speak to them to enable problems to be solved."

She added: "The police are keen to build bridges with the local community and the meeting could mark a giant leap forward."

Coun Mrs Barber said community police PC Nick Fisher and PC Chris Giltrow-Shaw would be among those present at the meeting which takes place at the 110 Club, Yorkshire Street at 7.30 on June 8.

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