TWO Rossendale car parks have scooped national security awards, thanks to a joint effort which is helping to cut crime.

It is the second year running that the car parks in Hindle Street and Dale Street, Haslingden, have received national awards under a scheme run between Rossendale Borough Council and the police.

Publicity about the awards and the high levels of security at the sites are said to have had a significant impact on crime reduction in the area.

The car parks have both successfully obtained the National Secured Car Park Award. High safety and security standards, including 24-hour CCTV coverage and what police call, "good natural observation", were among the reasons why the car parks scooped the award.

Safe car parking facilities for residents and shoppers are seen as a priority in the borough.

Crime prevention officer PC Dave Sykes, who worked with the council to achieve the awards, said: "I am delighted that the car parks have been awarded this accolade for a second year running."

And according to PC Sykes, the awards will help the area's tourism and trade.

He said: "It's great news, not only for the council, but also for visitors to the borough and for us.

"We have seen a significant reduction in car crime in this particular area since car park security was stepped up."

The council are now working towards achieving other Secured Car Parking awards.

Council traffic engineer David Harrison said: "It's in everyone's best interests to have secure parking and we're working hard to bring other local car parks up to the same standard as our Hindle Street and Dale Street parking facilities.

"Crime is already low in Rossendale, but working alongside local Police Officers we're confident that we can make the borough an even safer place to live, work and visit."