A MAJOR new crime crackdown has been launched by police in Nelson and Brierfield in response to rising crime.

The crackdown, which will see extra resources including mounted officers, high visibility foot patrols and use of the CCTV van and mobile police station, has been launched following an increase in reports of burglary and auto crime.

Operation Fix It will also call on the support of local residents who are being urged to work with community beat managers and police community support officers to deter thieves and reduce crime levels.

Inspector Jon Bullas said: "We believe that a small number of local youths are responsible for the majority of the crime are we are determined to root them out by whatever means possible.

"High visibility foot and mounted patrols will be used to deter suspected criminals while the CCTV van will be used to gather evidence of any wrong-doing. Finally, the mobile police station will be parked up in the area to be used as a contact point for local residents.

"I would like to encourage people to call into their local police station and pick up a leaflet on crime prevention and even to take valuable items like mobile phones to the station to get them security coded.

"I would also urge anyone with any information about recent crimes to come forward and either speak to a local officer or call Crimestoppers free and in confidence on 0800 555 111."

The CCTV Van will be in Nelson and Brierfield both during the day and in the evenings as part Operation Fix It.

In addition, the mobile police station will be in Brierfield Monday to Wednesday and in Nelson from Thursday until Saturday.