POLICE crime-busters have made Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale a safer place to be, according to official figures released today.

The chances of being burgled or a victim of car theft have reduced significantly in the Pennine police division over the past year.

And people are less likely to be involved in road accidents, according to year-end results.

Although the figures show a 0.5per cent rise in overall crime, there were cuts in offences which caused the community most concern -- with car crime down 13.4per cent, disorder cut by 13 per cent and burglary down by 0.2 per cent.

The figures also show a 17.5per cent cut in serious or fatal road collisions and a food rate of success when it came to answering immediate response calls -- 91 per cent answered on time which was one per cent up on target, say police.

Pennine divisional commander, Chief Superintendent John Knowles said he was pleased with the results.

"We know from feedback from the public that burglary and vehicle crime re key concerns for local people so we are delighted to be able to say that we have made substantial progress in these two areas."

Mr Knowles went on: "We expected a slight increase in crime because of new crime recording practices introduced by the force last year and because we have been actively trying to increase reporting of domestic violence and racist crimes.

"We make no apology for this very slight increase. Our stance is positive and in the interests of our local community -- we must bring crime out into the opening we are to get a clear picture and tackle it effectively."