POLICE are moving their fight against car crime up a gear by using the latest Hollywood blockbuster starring soccer hardman-turned-actor Vinnie Jones to drive home their message.

"Gone in 60 Seconds" opened in cinemas across East Lancashire yesterday and is expected to be one of the box office hits of the year.

The plot centres on a thief who boasts that he can break into any kind of car under 60 seconds -- regardless of the make or model.

But every person who goes to see the film in Lancashire will be given a Crimestoppers card containing advice and information about car crime and how to prevent it with their Cinema tickets.

Vinnie Jones -- who was recently approached by Burnley FC boss Stan Ternent about a possible move to Turf Moor -- plays a mute hardman who takes personal offence to anyone who dares to disrespect his buddies.

The film also stars Nicholas Cage as a retired car thief who is drawn back into a life of crime when his brother gets into trouble with a local hoodlum played by Christopher Eccleston.

Crimestoppers co-ordinator DC Andy Edwards said: "This initiative helps by providing members of the public with information on how to prevent car crimes and promotes the Crimestoppers freephone number on 0800 555111."

PC Wade Dooley, of Lancashire Police, added: "The film presented us with a unique opportunity to promote the prevention of car crime in the county. While we want people to enjoy their visit to the cinema to see the film, we want to take the opportunity to remind people about the reality of becoming a victim of car crime."

Cinemas taking part in the scheme include the Apollo branches in Blackburn and Burnley. Gareth Howis, deputy manager of the Apollo Cinema in Burnley, said: "We think it is a good idea and hopefully our customers will heed the advice on the cards."