A POLICE operation to crack down on criminals in Rossendale has been hailed a huge success after 10 people were charged on suspicion of committing offences.

Officers swooped on addresses in Rawtenstall and Bacup on Tuesday after weeks spent gathering intelligence.

The swoops were part of Operation Font, aimed at targeting criminals who police believe have been responsible for street robberies, stealing, burglary and theft. DS Andy Gilbert said: "We want this to act as a warning to the criminals out there that we are on their case and will not tolerate criminal activity in Rossendale."

One 16-year-old youth, charged with five counts of breaching his Anti-Social Behaviour Order, appeared before Burnley magistrates yesterday.

He was remanded to stay in the care of the local authority.