CABBIES have called for a review into the opening hours of Accrington police station to be brought forward amid fears for their safety over the festive season.

And they are looking to install CCTV cameras inside their cabs to help prevent and detect crime.

Opening times for police stations across Eastern Division, which covers Hyndburn, were altered in September 2001 after it was decided it was no longer cost effective to stay open 24 hours a day.

At a town centre regeneration meeting last week, Insp Phil Cottam, of Accrington police, said a review would be held into the 8pm closing times but that it would probably be next year.

But Mohammed Arif, chairman of Hyndburn Taxi Cab Association, said that was not soon enough as drivers were concerned about trouble over the Christmas and New Year period.

He said: "Inspector Cottam has said they are looking into this matter after Christmas but it should be brought forward.

"The drivers are very cautious now and concerned about the possibility of additional problems over the Christmas and New Year period."

Drivers are now looking into the possibility of securing funding for CCTV cameras, which can cost between £300 and £1500 to be installed in their vehicles.