MORECAMBE and Lancaster police will write to every parent in the area, asking them to keep an eye on their children this summer.

They want parents to take more responsibility for keeping their children on the straight and narrow.

They are also keen to impress on young people the worries many other members of the community have when they see large groups gathering outdoors.

The children should also have money or a phone card and details of how to contact their parents if they hit trouble while out, according to police advice.

Police hope the initiative will help to combat the number of 'juvenile nuisance' complaints from the public.

Sgt Dai Davies, who wrote the leaflet, said: "This is a simple initiative which is aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour, reducing road casualties and preventing crime by young people in a non-confrontational manner by education and understanding rather than by enforcement.

"The co-operation of the schools in distributing the information is greatly appreciated and it is hoped that parents and carers will be more aware of the activities of their children and that the information distributed will contribute to a safer and better environment for the entire community."

Insp Ken Clayson of Morecambe police said: "I am grateful to the other agencies who have supported this worthwhile initiative.

"I sincerely hope that the information will be read by the parents and pupils alike and if it prevents a single road accident or one young person can be steered away from criminal behaviour or prevented from becoming the victim of crime, our efforts will have been worthwhile.

"Our objective is to create a community spirit where every members feels safe, involved and reassured."