A POLICE operation to stem the tide of handbag snatches and doorstep conmen has been launched in Radcliffe.

The Coronation Road area is to be flooded with extra officers in a bid to catch or deter offenders from preying on vulnerable residents.

The move is in response to a spate of street robberies and distraction burglaries, where elderly people have been tricked into letting thieves posing as workmen into their homes.

As part of Operation Abington, Bury and District Crime Prevention mobile unit will today be based at Red Bank Health Centre, offering pensioners advice on protecting themselves and their homes.

Inspector John Higson, head of Radcliffe police, said: "Over the last few months there has been a sharp increase in the number of handbag snatches and distraction burglaries in and around the Coronation Road area and this is causing us great concern.

"Operation Abington involves stepping up the number of uniformed police patrols in the area as well as utilising Bury Council's Community Wardens to help resolve this problem.

"Police officers will also be visiting the homes of those who have suffered distraction burglaries, repeat break-ins or encountered violent raiders to offer assistance in making their houses more secure."

Funding has been secured from Bury's Community Safety Partnership to purchase a range of crime prevention devices, including door chains and window locks.

Insp Higson added: "This initiative will involve a wide variety of agencies, including gas board representatives, and will centre on education and prevention.

"A number of representatives will be available today at Red Bank Health Centre."

The Crime Prevention Panel's trailer will also be sited in Coronation Road on January 21 and at the health centre again on January 24.