AS a local UKIP MEP, I am concerned over the rumours that Darwen police station could close due to the cost cutting of Lancashire Constabulary.

Residents of Darwen are right to be concerned as police response times are sure to be lengthened if the station was to close and officers had to arrive from Greenbank.

A police station in Darwen is an effective deterrent against crime and quick response times enable officers to react to criminal activities with a greater chance of success.

Closing down this police station would be a short- sighted blow to the area and must not be allowed to happen.

Paul Nuttall, North West MEP, UK Independence Party.