A SPATE of burglaries in a popular housing estate has led to police taking action to 'reassure and raise confidence' in the area.

Concerns had been raised after reports of up to 17 burglaries in the Woodnook area of Accrington in the past two months.

Neighbourhood officers have visited the area this week to reassure victims of crime and 'raise confidence' with residents about the actions they are taking.

Cllr Tony Dobson, who represents the area on Hyndburn Council, said there is a 'conveyor belt' of offenders targetting Woodnook.

He said: "Most law abiding people in the area are looking for a fundamental change.

"It's very frustrating for people in the area.

"It's almost a conveyor belt of people causing the same issues.

"They are locked away for a few months and then more people are doing the same.

"It's a good thing officers are being seen out, it raises doubt in the mind of criminals, it makes them think they could get caught.

"But these things could be going on anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

Two months ago the Lancashire Telegraph reported a 25-year-old mother was burgled in Clement Street in the Woodnook area just one week after giving birth.

The victim Chloe said she was left 'violated and forced to find new home'.

Thieves stole two cars, one of which was later found burned out at King George’s Playing Field in Accrington, passports and an expensive baby seat.

In response to incidents officers have been patrolling streets for residents to speak to as part of the police and community together (PACT) initiative.

On Wednesday Woodnook neighbourhood officers were around Royds Street, Booth Street, August Street, Wilfred Street and Clements Street speaking to residents.

A Hyndburn Police spokesman said: "Accrington Neighbourhood Officers have been in Woodnook for a day of action which included a Street PACT where residents could speak to their team.

"Victims of crime have been revisited to provide reassurance along with security advice and leaflets.

"This operation was designed to reassure and raise confidence, there is of course lots going on out of sight along with plain clothes officers."

Lancashire Police has also said the local team will be carrying out PACT meetings to give residents a further chance to make comments on policing.

A £15million housing regeneration by property developer PlaceFirst has also taken place in the area, transforming 131 empty Victorian terraces in Woodnook.