ACCRINGTON police have distributed thumb-print ink packs to jewellers and pawn brokers in the town, to deter burglars and thieves selling stolen valuables.

Customers bringing in rings, watches, medals and other valuables will be asked if an ink impression can be taken of their thumbs, said town centre officer PC Steve Hilton.

"Jewellery and medals have both a financial and sentimental value," he emphasised.

"This voluntary scheme is a precautionary measure to stop people using Accrington as a place to sell stolen property.

"Shopkeepers already ask customers for their names, addresses and some form of identification, which is good.

"Customers can decline, But we hope this ink pad scheme will help the police, as we can check our records of stolen property taken during burglaries with what is being sold to local shops." One thousand small ink pads have been distributed to local shops .

Businesses taking part include Alpha Medals and Coins, and the Peter's, Gems and Hamoods jewellers, all on Blackburn Road.

Computer games shops are also joining the scheme, including SR Electronics and Megaswap, plus the Sell It All shop, all of which are located on Blackburn Road.