TOWN centre shopkeepers are to be given ultra violet lights in a bid to combat fake currency coming in to the town.

Colne town centre police have secured £252 from the Colne Area Committee for the scheme, and the UV lights will be distributed during the next two weeks.

In addition to all the retail outlets, the town’s off licenses and pubs will be issued with the lights.

PC Mark Walker said: “The police, retailers and licensees within the town are extremely grateful to Colne Area Committee for assisting and supporting us in our fight against crime, disorder and anti social behaviour.

“Counterfeit currency has a large financial impact on small businesses. While I am pleased to say Colne has only seen a small amount of counterfeit currency coming in to the town, these lights will hopefully ensure that no currency should now get through the net.”

Colne councillor Dorothy Lord said: “Colne councillors will continue to support and promote local businesses in the town.

“No business or person should fall victim to crime, disorder or anti social behaviour. The area committee is happy to finance and support this initiative.”

Mick Armfield, Pendle Borough Council licensing officer, said: “Our licensees are already extremely vigilant when it comes to checking means of identification either at the point of sale or when trying to gain entry into licensed premises.

“The ultra violet lights will be a useful, additional tool to assist them in determining whether the identification is fraudulent or not.”