PRESTON and South Ribble will get a crime fighting boost from December when new police community support officers take up their posts.

Each of Lancashire Constabulary's six divisions will have 12 officers to patrol the areas. Preston is covered by Central division and South Ribble by Southern division.

The scheme will cost about £1million to set up and run, funded by the Government, and officers will have powers to issue penalty notices for offences such cycling on footways, dog fouling, dropping litter and drinking alcohol in public places.

County Councillor Ruth Henig, chairman of Lancashire Police Authority, said: "Lancashire's bid for this scheme was particularly well received by the Home Office who were impressed with the way the constabulary and Police Authority were working together to promote community safety and reassurance. The way we plan to deploy our support officers across Lancashire means both urban and rural areas will benefit.

"They will be a real asset in our quest to make Lancashire a place where people can feel safe."