A RIBBLE Valley town is to get three extra police officers after spate of vandalism.

Resident and Labour Party member Stephanie Lomas  chaired a public meeting attended by 200 at Longridge Civic Hall to discuss growing crime and anti-social behaviour.

Recent incidents included graffiti on St Paul’s Church and the vandalism of the Children’s Playhouse at ‘Little People at The Limes’.

Longridge bowling green has had repeated problems with damage caused by football players and cyclists.

Ribble Valley MP Evans said after the meeting: "Inspector Andy Winter confirmed three extra police officers will be based permanently in Longridge.

"Recent mindless vandalism and the damage caused to the bowling green are totally unacceptable. I do not see these as minor misdemeanours but as something more serious."

He added: "Many elderly residents feel anxiety and fear because of the recent unrest and the intimidation caused by some young people in the area.

Cllr Ken Hind, leader of Ribble Valley Borough who represents the town's Dilworth ward, said Longridge should be policed from Preston rather than Colne and its police front desk should be reopened.