POLICE in Accrington are set to launch a new clampdown on pickpockets and thieves in the run-up to Christmas.

Operation Elves 2, which is a follow-on from last year's operation, will begin in earnest on Monday when the town's Christmas lights are switched on and late-night shopping commences.

Mark Porter, town centre sergeant for Accrington police, said: "The feedback we had from last year was that it was very successful and the crime figures at the time also reflected that.

"The operation will target vulnerable areas and hot spots and will involve us paying particular attention to car park crimes, shoplifting and robberies which have a tendency to rise in most areas towards Christmas time."

He said much of the operation would be about crime prevention and posters would go up around the town to promote these issues.

The mobile police station is also set to return to the town centre at various points and will be based outside the market hall. It is hoped an increase in high-visibility policing with the mobile station and stepped-up patrols by officers will act as a deterrent to criminals and help to reassure shoppers.

Police will also be working with Hyndburn Chamber of Trade, Hyndburn First and members of the Pubwatch scheme to combat crime over the festive period.

Sergeant Porter said: "There is a very large building site in the town centre at present which creates a more tightened bustling area and makes it more important for shoppers to be on their guard.

"People should keep their purses and mobile telephones, which are likely to be targeted, in a secure inside pocket or one with a zip on.

"We cannot emphasise the crime prevention aspect of this enough to people who use the town centre."