PUB door staff are being given metal detectors by the police to help crack down on knife crime.

The £800 project, led by the local Pub Watch scheme, is to be launched as part of the Accrington's violent crime action plan.

But police have reassured residents that the town does not have a problem with weapons and say the project is a "preventative measure".

Eight airport security-type detector wands have been bought by officers and they will be handed out to licensees.

Four premises have been chosen for the detectors but officers have declined to say where.

They will be available to use on Friday and Saturday nights from next week.

Sgt Ian Corbett said: "The idea is to reduce violent crime and show that Accrington and Hyndburn on the whole is a safe place to visit in the evening.

"If this prevents just one incident, it will be a success.

"This is a plan that has come from the licensees themselves. The metal detectors will be in place by Christmas but will be a permanent presence.

"They will not be limited to the four initial premises that are chosen. Through the Pub Watch scheme it will be decided where wands are most needed.

"We don't want to use scare tactics and make it sound like there is a real problem in the town with knives. This is a positive message."

Mohammed Mukhtar, who runs the Industry nightclub in Church Street, said the metal detectors were a good idea.

He said: "You don't know what some people are carrying and these measures will make people feel safer coming into town."