EXTRA police patrols have been pledged following the final closure of Rossendale Hospital earlier this month.

Metal shutters have been fitted to the old building, off Haslingden Road, and private security deployed.

But the site has been targeted by urban explorers and police in Rawtenstall’s Longholme area will look to guard against intruders and vandals.

Councillors have also aired concern about the future security of the buildings, which were used to provide medical care for nearly 100 years.

Only the outpatients department remained at the hospital latterly as facilities were transferred.