AN OPERATION to crack down on criminals in Pendle as part of a pre-Christmas crime blitz is continuing.

Operation Freeze was unveiled during a special meeting between police, traders and others at Nelson Town Hall earlier this month.

The clampdown, which will continue until January 5, involves extra high visibility foot patrols in Nelson, Brierfield and Barrowford, visits at key intervals by the force helicopter and mobile patrols by road policing officers on main routes in and out of the towns.

Inspector Paul Robinson, geographic inspector for the area, said offences across the board were down 8.7 per cent this year compared to the same time last year.

But there is traditionally an increase in crime at this time of year, particularly in shop theft and car crime.

He said: "Our message to would-be criminals is clear -- commit crime in the Nelson area and we will do our level best to make sure that you pay the price.

"Given the time of year, that will include, where appropriate, ensuring that offenders spend Christmas behind bars."