PEOPLE living in the housing market renewal areas of Darwen are being offered free locks and bolts to protect their homes from thieves.

Councillor Dave Smith is encouraging people living in the Hindle Street, Harwood Street, Vale Street and Hannah Street areas to take advantage of the scheme run by by Groundwork in conjunction with the council.

He said: "There's no catch, it is free. People don't have to fit any criteria so long as they live in the market renewal areas.

"We want to try and prevent burglaries in these areas.

"They have suffered a lot of vandalism over the years and we want people to feel as safe as possible."

People wanting to take advantage of the offer should contact Nick Riley on 01254 669011.