POLICE surgeries will aim to tackle crime at a community level during weekly visits to a Darwen church and community centre.

Throughout February, residents will benefit from police visits to Sudellside Community Centre, Sudellside Road and St James's Church on Hazel Avenue.

Sessions will be held at the community centre every Saturday from 10am to noon until March 15.

At St James's Church, sessions will kick off at the same time but will be held on Thursday's from February 13 to March 6.

Sue Freear, centre event organiser, said: "A lot of times we get people coming in and saying they have had trouble getting down to the police station so we thought it would be a good idea to bring them to us every now and then.

"They will be there to listen to any queries or problems residents might be having. It's a real benefit to residents who don't get out much but want to talk things through with police officers.

"We did the same thing four years ago when we started up and I think it will be a hit again second time around."

Sgt Anne Scott, Problem Oriented Policing (POPS) co-ordinator, said: "It's a way to get police out into the community and it's crucial for us to reach as many people as possible.

"Surgeries often work very well and are well accepted by residents."

For more information call 01254 760270.