A REDUCTION in car crime is the aim of a project by Blackpool police.

Auto-crime Awareness Week which kicked off on Saturday (May 27) has been organised by police in partnership with private companies and other agencies.

The project aims to combat car crime through measures including effective use of CCTV cameras, promoting more secure car parks and intelligence-led policing such as the use of "rat trap" cars to target criminals.

More than 60,000 crisis cards will also be distributed to homes in the area giving a list of useful numbers as well as numerous handy hints on crime prevention, car safety and advice on buying a car.

Acting Det Insp Phil Burke of Blackpool police said: "The Fylde Coast has a particular problem with car crime as criminals prey on visitors to the area, but residents are also victims.

"We hope this week will raise the profile of this issue."