POLICE in Pendle have drafted in the help of horse power in a month-long blitz to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Lancashire Constabulary's Mounted Branch will ride into Nelson and Brierfield this week, supporting local officers in their fight against the crimes plaguing the areas.

The extra police and their trusty steeds will be working alongside local community beat managers.

They will be carrying out high visibility patrols in nuisance hot-spots and targeting suspected offenders.

The mounted branch are saddling up to spend four weeks in the area during which time they will report to Sergeant Martin Stuart at Nelson Police Station.

Sergeant Stuart said: "The Mounted Branch have been over to Pendle on a number of occasions now and their presence is always warmly welcomed by residents.

"During their month-long stay in the borough, mounted officers will be working in close partnership with our own local officers to help tackle youth nuisance and anti-social behaviour problems, as well as target suspected offenders.

"We're looking forward to the extra horse power which will not only help our officers to drive down crime and disorder levels still further, but also provide an extra presence on the streets to help reassure local residents."

Sergeant Alison Davies from Lancashire Constabulary's Mounted Branch said: "The team are delighted to be returning to Pendle following our activity there last year.

"It is good to know that the work of the mounted branch - and other officers - is appreciated and that we have so much support among the local community in Nelson and Brierfield."