The Lancashire Violence Reduction Network (VRN) has funded an extra 6,354 policing hours in the first half of this year.

The scheme, dubbed "Operation GRIP", is aimed at tackling serious violence across the county.

The efforts have resulted in a seven per cent decrease in crime in targeted areas.

From January to June, 21 hotspot areas, identified for a high incidence of serious violence, received increased foot patrols and intelligence-led policing activity.

These measures led to 131 arrests and 415 searches.

Chief Inspector Dave Oldfield, operational lead for the VRN, said: "The results from the first six months of this year show the real impact of a visible, proactive police presence.

"Each arrest, search, and disruption visit plays a part in preventing more serious crimes."

He highlighted one case where GRIP officers, alerted by a local taxi driver, found a discarded rucksack containing three machetes, an axe, and a lock knife.

He said: "This intervention clearly prevented what could have been a far more serious incident."

The initiative not only reduced crime by seven per cent but also led to specific decreases in key crime categories in the 21 hotspot areas.

There was a four per cent decrease in violence with injury, a six per cent decrease in arson and criminal damage, and a significant 20 per cent decrease in theft.

As Operation GRIP continues into the second half of this year, the VRN is committed to further reducing violence.

Hotspot locations are regularly reviewed and may change in response to emerging trends, ensuring resources are targeted where they are needed most.