CHILDREN as young as 13 were found roaming the streets late at night during a police operation in Pendle.

Officers spoke to more than 120 children and seized two bottles of cider, half a bottle of vodka and a bottle of Lambrini during the night time patrol.

The joint operation also involved council officers, staff from children's services and Early Break.

Eleven children, aged between 13 and 16, who were identified as being vulnerable, were taken to safe haven.

Sergeant Natasha Shaw, who was in charge of the operation said: “Operation Staysafe is designed to protect children who are out late at night from becoming involved in or victims of crime.

“It is concerning that we are finding groups of young children on the streets drinking alcohol, particularly when they are lying to their parents about where they are going.

“I urge parents to make sure they are happy that their children are being truthful when they say they are staying at a friends’ house.

“Communities should be reassured that the police and other agencies are committed to doing everything in their power to keep children safe and we will continue to carry our similar operations over the Christmas period.”

Coun David Whipp, chairman of the Community Safety Partnership, which part funds Staysafe, said: “This is an important way to protect our vulnerable children and teenagers.

“Working with their families we need to do all we can to keep our young people safe.”