LANCASHIRE Constabulary has adopted a new homophobic incident reporting policy after considerable research and consultation with the gay and lesbian community.

It also follows recommendations by Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary that all forces should establish policies and strategies for policing incidents and crimes against the gay community.

Acting Assistant Chief Constable Mike Tonge said: "We have been working closely with the gay community for some time and they have highlighted the difficulties they sometimes face in reporting crime.

"Our policy aims to ensure that gay men, lesbians and bisexuals receive fair and consistent treatment from the Constabulary."

He added: "Our priorities will be to encourage the reporting of homophobic incidents by providing positive support to victims and taking effective action against offenders.

"We will also attempt to prevent such incidents taking place."

As part of the new policy, the force has appointed someone in each of the six divisions to be responsible for liaison with the lesbian and gay community, and for monitoring any reported homophobic incidents.

Preston's divisional representative is PC Keith Little, domestic violence liaison officer.

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