A SURGE in calls to CrimeStoppers following a police promotion has helped net property, drugs and firearms worth almost £100,000.

Calls to the crime information line rose by 59 per cent in the three months to the end of June as a result of the campaign centred on the Bank Top area of Blackburn.

There were 65 arrests across the town as a result of the information received.

Today, Blackburn Police Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Alan Holt said it was encouraging to see that people were now willing to report incidents.

He added: "People can rest assured that any information received will be treated with utmost confidence and that action will be taken." Reports of specific offences rose from 34 in the first three months of the year to 54 in the second.

Drugs offences accounted for 26 tips, with two reports about paedophiles and three of criminal damage, theft and handling stolen goods.

Property and firearms worth £45,400 were recovered as well as drugs with a street value of £51,800. The initiative involved the Bank Top Employers' Forum asking businesses in the area to display CrimeStoppers posters in their premises and distribute information cards in wage packets.

The aim was to create greater awareness of the CrimeStoppers freephone scheme which allows the public to speak to police without fear of repercussions.

Callers can give information by telephoning 0800 555111 anonymously or in confidence.

In the last year, callers have given information on crimes including drugs offences, murder, rape and robbery.

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