Police have been called to reports of anti-social behaviour in Ribchester and Longridge.

Officers have identified the young people connected with anti-social behaviour in Longridge and spoken to staff at Longridge High and St Cecilia's High School.

Six youths have been issued acceptable behaviour contracts, on the back of meetings with the schools.

The aim of the contracts is to “address their behaviour with the hope of making them realise how their actions can affect the community”.

A police spokesperson said: “Neighbourhood officers have been responding to concerns about anti-social behaviour.

“We have received reports about Berry Lane at Longridge and the Greenside area at Ribchester.

“We have identified individuals connected to the Longridge ASB and have had productive meetings with staff at Longridge High and St Cecilia's schools.

“Six youths have been issued acceptable behaviour contracts on the back of meetings with the schools, parents and the youths involved.

“This is to address their behaviour with the hope of making them realise how their actions can affect the community. If there are breaches to the conditions of the orders, then we will take further action, and look to prosecute any criminal behaviour.

“We hope to strike a balance between giving young people an opportunity to change behaviour, and then escalate our police action if needed. This is an on-going process and any new reports we will respond to.

“As part of this, our colleagues at mounted branch patrolled Longridge last Friday. This was well received by residents, and we hope to have the horses and mounted officers back.

“This week we have also met with residents of Ribchester and a local Councillor to look at anti-social behaviour issues.

“We are looking to identify any individuals connected to this and increase police visibility in the area.

“You may recall our post last year, where youths who caused criminal damage at Ribchester paid for the damages and had to undertake a period of community volunteer work as part of the resolution. Therefore, be assured that appropriate action will be taken.”