Police have launched an investigation after a Chorley beauty spot was identified on a number of internet websites as a meeting place for sex.

The Hi-Tech Crime Unit, at Lancashire Constabulary Headquarters in Hutton, will examine websites which name Pigeon Tower car park, also known as Witches Tower car park, Rivington, as a hotspot for 'dogging', a term used for having sex in vehicles in public places or watching others do so, after dark.

Police say they have not had any reports of actual incidents but have been alert by a councillor that this behaviour may occur.

Councillor Pat Case, who represents Rivington and Heath Charnock, fears the internet sites may encourage undesirables to the local beauty spot and she is concerned for the safety of young people and children.

She said: "The thing that worries me is teenagers who have just learned to drive may go up there.

"They could have under-age people with them and through no fault of their own could end up being involved. It is just perverted."

Inspector Janet Edmondson, of Coppull and Wheelton police, said: "We have received information and we will be making appropriate inquiries and it will be passed to the high-tech unit for consideration.

"We do not see it as a big problem as we have not received any complaints relating to sexual activity since March 1 this year, but we will be looking into it to ascertain whether any criminal offences are being committed."

Officers on evening and night time patrols in Rivington have also been told to watch for any suspicious activity in the area.