POLICE have cracked down on juvenile crime at a castle, after swapping their uniforms for civvies.

Since mid-January, 24 under 17-year-olds have had juvenile referral forms issued against them for offences in the grounds of Clitheroe Castle, ranging from disorder to drinking alcohol.

It was part of a joint scheme with the police and Ribble Valley Council, who are trying to get more people to use the grounds for leisurely pursuits, but who are being put off by acts of vandalism and nuisance, which cost the borough £6,000 last year.

"The attempts by the police to crack down on crimes in and around the castle, which include a broken window at the museum and damage to benches, have proved to be very successful," said Insp. Bob Ford, based at Clitheroe Police Station.

"Officers walked round the area dressed in jeans and casual clothing to try and find the groups of youngsters who have been causing problems over the past few months.

"As a result, several youths were questioned and searched after they were observed drinking. The alcohol was poured away and juvenile referral forms issued, which are sent to their parents," explained Insp Ford. The referral system means the youths' names are kept on file for six months. Should they re-offend in that time, a second form is issued to the parents, as well as the youth's school or college and social services.

Since the scheme began almost 12 months ago, juvenile crime figures have gone down in the Ribble Valley. It works by informing the child's parents about their activities and, therefore, encouraging the parents to become aware of their child's activities and whereabouts.

In the first two months since the scheme began, 90 first forms were filed. Of these, only about 10 per cent of the youngsters re-offended.

"We want people to use the castle grounds and obviously want people to feel safe rather than be confronted by groups of youths and trip over litter and cans," added Insp Ford. "The covert patrolling appears to have worked well."

He said the issue of cracking down on these types of crimes was a long-term project and increased policing of the area would continue to make the grounds a pleasant place.

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