OFFICERS searching for five people from across East Lancashire are asking the public to help them track the suspects down.

Last week Lancashire Police launched Operation Hunter which targets some of the county’s most wanted offenders.

In the past seven days more than 40 wanted individuals have been arrested – and the force aren’t ready to stop just yet.

The following four men and a woman all have links to the east of the county and are wanted for a variety of offences.

Anyone who knows where they are or who sees them should call 101 and quote log reference number 0364 of July 14.

Ch Insp Stephen Holgate, who is coordinating the Operation said: "If you see any of these individuals or have any information on their whereabouts we need to hear from you.

"We arrest a significant number of people who are wanted as part of our daily business. However, a small number of people will do all that they can to evade capture by the Police and go to ground. If you can help us locate these individuals please get in touch.

"Operation Hunter sends a clear message to criminals that there will be no hiding place. For those who think they can evade the criminal justice system, they are wrong - it is only a matter of time before you are caught."

Jason Pilkington

Wanted after failing to appear at Burnley Magistrates Court last month.

The 48-year-old is wanted on warrant in connection with an offence of criminal damage.

Pilkington, of Russell Terrace, Padiham is described as 5ft 9in tall of slim build.

He has links to Pendle and Burnley.

Kyle Granite

Wanted in connection with a serious assault.

The 29-year-old is wanted on warrant after failing to appear at Preston Crown Court in January.

Granite, of Bridge Street, Rishton, is described as 5ft 9in tall of medium build.

It is believed he may have travelled out of the area and has links to Cumbria, Hyndburn and Fleetwood.

Keith Bridson

Wanted on bench warrant issued by Burnley Crown Court.

The 30-year-old is wanted after failing to appear at court in connection with an attempted burglary.

Bridson, previously of Accrington Road Burnley is described as around 5ft 10in tall, of slim build with receding hair.

He has links to Preston, Morecambe, Burnley and Hyndburn.

Daniel Donaldson

Wanted on warrant in connection with being concerned in the production of a controlled drug.

The 24-year-old is wanted on warrant after failing to appear at Blackburn Magistrates in May.

Donaldson, previously of Marlton Road, Blackburn is described as around 6ft tall with short fair hair.

He has links to the Blackburn area.

Janine Thompson

Wanted on warrant after failing to appear at Wirral Magistrates Court last month.

The 40-year-old is wanted on warrant in connection with possession with intent to supply drugs.

Thompson, previously of Blackburn Road, Accrington, is described as being 5ft 4in tall, with dark hair.

She has links to Accrington, Haslingden and Rossendale.