Senior councillors in an East Lancashire borough have been warned of a wave of yobbery in its townships.

Hyndburn Council's Cabinet was told of a sharp increase in anti-social behaviour (ASB) such as fighting and setting fires in Rishton, Great Harwood, Clayton-le-Moors and Altham.

The alert from Hyndburn families boss Cllr Kate Walsh followed a social media message from a local police officer.

She said: "I am disappointed to hear that there has been a sharp increase in ASB incidents in recent weeks, especially in Rishton, Great Harwood, Clayton and Altham.

"Labour councillors have been working closely with Hyndburn police to identify areas of particular concern and keep updated on what the police are doing to tackle ASB in the borough.

"We continue to encourage residents to report all incidents to the police.

"We are pleased that the Targeted Youth Team from Lancashire County Council is now prevalent in the area working with the youth in the evenings to try and combat these issues.

"The bottom line is we currently do not have enough police in the borough after the previous Conservative government made significant cuts to policing numbers.

"We are continuing to advocate for more community police on our streets.

"All our residents have to right to feel safe in their own community and homes - tackling ASB is a must."

Cllr Walsh's comments followed a post from PC Dave Render on Monday on his 'Stay in the Know' social media channel for Hyndburn parents and guardians.

It said: “After seeing an increase of ASB by young people over the last few weeks I am writing to you to urge you to help us to keep your children safe and out of trouble.

"Can we ask you to consider that ASB can have a significant impact on our communities and victims?

"We have had numerous complaints during the last couple of weeks of ASB, many of which have involved large groups of youths.

"Your child’s safety and preventing further issues are a priority and we would like to make it clear - underage drinking, fires causing criminal damage, fighting and foul and abusive language are all ASB and this will not be tolerated.

"As parents or guardians, you do have an important and valued role to play – we would ask you do you really know what your children are up to?

"If your young person is involved in ASB and we contact you please take this seriously.

"I would strongly urge you to reinforce the message that they need to behave responsibly when outside of the home to help us keep our communities places for all to enjoy.”