POLICE have launched a Christmas crackdown on crime in Darwen.

Operation Elves will run throughout the festive period, focusing on reducing juvenile nuisance, violence, car crime, burglary and criminal damage.

A poster campaign will support the operation which warns thieves and encourages shoppers to keep their items safe.

The slogan: "Thinking of shoplifting? We are thinking of you".

Extra patrols will be on duty in the town centre and officers will pay particular attention to car security by visiting car parks and checking presents are not on display.

Community Support Officer Chris Williams said: "Operation Elves is well established as an effective way to keep crime down over Christmas and I hope the Christmas crime prevention messages we deliver will encourage the local community to stay vigilant."