Seven children taken to safety in Ribble Valley police sweep (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Seven children taken to safety in Ribble Valley police sweep

7:00pm Tuesday 30th October 2012 in News By David Watkinson, Deputy news editor

SEVEN children were taken to safety as part of a night-time operation to keep young people safe in the Ribble Valley.

Police joined forces with agencies including Trading Standards and Ribble Valley Council for the crackdown which identifies youngsters who are believed to be vulnerable or at risk of significant harm.

Among those taken to safety were two 16-year-old girls, who were found at the train station with vodka, and an intoxicated 16-year-old boy, who was found with seven fireworks near to the castle grounds.

Officers also seized 16 litres of spirits, beer and cider during the operation, which took place between 6.30pm and 1am on Friday.

The action came as part of the CANsafe scheme, which involves agencies working together to address the negative impact underage drinking and anti social behaviour can have on communities.

It follows the success of the Community Alcohol Network which has been running successfully since June 2011. Chief Inspector Joanne McHugh said: “Police regularly deal with the consequences of drunken teenagers who become involved in crime or anti social behaviour.

“This project is designed to intervene with these young people early, to seize alcohol and to protect vulnerable young people by removing them from the streets.”

Anyone with information or concerns about underage drinking or anti social behaviour can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.