BLACKBURN with Darwen Liberal Democrats have unveiled a five point action plan to tackle crime in the borough.

The party has put forward a motion to be discussed at the full council meeting next month.

The scheme calls for:

l More police on patrol instead of "wasting" billions on ID cards.

l Take back town centres - let communities close pubs and clubs that cause trouble.

l Make sentences mean what they say - life should mean life.

l Compulsory work and training in prison - to cut re-offending.

l Better compensation for victims - paid for by prison work.

LibDem leader Coun David Foster said: "We have five simple steps that could really make a difference in our area."

BLACKBURN Arena will extend its opening hours next month to meet an increase in demand thanks to the television show Dancing on Ice.

Last year the Arena in Waterside saw the popularity of skating rocket on the back of ITV programme.

And with the new series just getting under way, bosses have confirmed the arena had stocked up on extra pairs of skates and will increase its opening hours during the February school half-term.

Managing director Des Finlay said: "No-one anticipated quite how big the programme would be last year and the level of interest in ice skating it would generate.

"We were having to turn away hundreds of people at its peak during the February half-term week, with queues stretching for as far as you could see out the door.

"The show is expected to be even bigger and better this year, so plans are in place to cope with the rush.

"We would advise everyone simply to arrive in plenty of time and be patient."