ALMOST 1,000 people have been arrested in the ten days since the launch of Lancashire Police's crime crackdown codenamed Operation Reassure.

Many of arrests have been for drunkenness and public disorder.

Extra officers have been drafted in for weekend patrols to ensure high visibility on the streets -- one of people's main concerns.

Police spokesman Caroline Emberton said: "We are very pleased with how the operation is going and we will continue with the high profile policing and making sure people can see what we are doing to clamp down on crime."

Arrests are for crimes including theft, assault, domestic violence, drunkenness, public disorder, burglary and car crime. A substantial amount of property has been seized, including electrical items, jewellery and drugs, such as cannabis, amphetamines, ecstasy and heroin. Officers from the mounted branch will join foot patrols. Inspector Andy Maughan said: "The unique blend of highly-skilled officers and horses provides high visibility patrols. Seeing an officer on horseback helps in providing valuable reassurance to the community and increases confidence in the police."

So far, one man has been arrested as a result of information posted on the force website.

Ian Singleton, Lancashire Constabulary's internet officer, said: "More than 200 people visit the website every day. This means the force will have an additional 200 pairs of eyes looking for these criminals."

Det Chief Supt Adrian McAllister, the crime support co-ordinator, added: "We are using every tool at our disposal with Operation Reassure to help achieve our aim of making all the communities of Lancashire feel safe, involved and reassured."

Pictures of the county's "Most Wanted" criminals along with details of offences and last known whereabouts, feature on this page at www.lancashire.police.uk