Crime fell by seven per cent in the borough of Chorley in 2005 with violent crime down by 15 per cent although there was a rise in incidents of criminal damage, mainly to vehicles.

Police chiefs say they are encouraged by the results of the survey and put the reduction of violent crime in the town centre down to a better partnership between police, the council and the licensed trade.

According to figures just released there were 7,544 reported crimes last year.

Burglary was down 16 per cent, a further improvement after a drop of 25 per cent in 2004, while vehicle crime reduced by four per cent.

Criminal damage has risen, mainly due to an increase of 18 per cent in damage to vehicles.

Inspector Ian Roberts, of Chorley Police, said: "I am encouraged to see crime rates falling.

"It is important to remember that each offence is one victim.

"Last year there were 62 fewer victims of burglary.

"Violent crime has reduced, especially in the town centre.

"This is due to positive partnership work between the police, local authority, and the licensed trade.

"During 2005 there were 287 less victims of violent crime compared to 2004." Inspector Ian Roberts added that police were now concentrating resources into combating anti-social behaviour and juvenile offending.

He said: "Damage is often alcohol fuelled, and we will be working with the licensed industry to prevent alcohol getting to youths and fuelling unacceptable behaviour. We need the help of parents, who should ensure that their children are not out at night drinking in parks and at the back of schools.

"Damage and anti-social behaviour is a community problem, and it takes the whole community working together to prevent it."

Inspector Janet Edmondson, of Coppull and Wheelton Police, said: "The police work with other agencies in the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, including the neighbourhood wardens, fire and rescue, and the youth and community service.

"I am glad to see that the number of victims in the borough has again reduced."

Ms Audrey Harrison, the crime and disorder reduction partnership coordinator, said: "All agencies are committed to reducing crime and disorder in the area.

"We are all focusing resources to make a difference.

"This is a good start, we hope to maintain and improve on these figures."