POLICE in Rossendale are putting a 'significant' drop in crime in Haslingden and Rawtenstall down to a series of arrests that have been made in recent weeks.

A total of 16 people, mostly juveniles, have been arrested for offences relating to burglary in the past week alone.

The result is that crime in some parts of Rossendale has been reduced by 50 per cent compared with other months.

Detective Inspector Mark Gray said: "Now that these people are being dealt with by being put on remand or bailed on strict bail conditions, we are seeing a positive reduction in crime.

"The crime in Rawtenstall and Haslingden was a particular problem in town centres -- particularly to shop owners."

The crackdown comes hot on the heels of a similar operation carried out by police in Rossendale targeting auto crime, which has also helped make some dramatic crime reductions.

This month in Rossendale West there has only been three burglaries and in Rossendale East four, which would normally have been double that amount.

DI Gray added: "After we carried out the auto crime initiative burglary was a particular focus for us. We want to assure residents that we will maintain a high profile in the area and devote our attention in relation to auto crime and burglary.

"I once again make no apologies in being tough with criminals who actively make lives a misery for those targeted by care and burglary crime.

"I want criminals to be aware that if they are caught they will receive a tough punishment."