BURNLEY police are launching an operation today to crack down on crime in the town.

Operation Fardel is running for the next four weeks and will concentrate around the Gannow Lane, Accrington Road, Padiham Road areas.

Main aim is to reduce criminal activity including criminal damage, car crime, burglaries and anti-social behaviour.

There will be an increased number of uniformed police and mounted officers will also patrol the streets.

PC Chris Hutchinson, who organised the operation alongside Sgt Phil Carter, said: “Through specific targeting of known offenders it is hoped that there will be an increase in arrests, fixed penalty tickets issued, juvenile referral forms submitted and intelligence gathered.

“This should have a positive effect on crime figures in the area.

“We will also be setting up a mobile police station set up on Padiham Road close to Gannow top were members of the public can come along and voice there concerns and pass on inform-ation.”

The operation was set up after crime figures in the borough were analysed and concerns were raised at a local PACT meeting.

PC Hutchinson added: “We hope to make a real difference. We are act-ing on concerns raised at the PACT meeting.”