A FRAUD studies programme could help businesses in East Lancashire combat crime and corruption.

The Centre for Fraud Management at Liverpool Business Centre has been running an in-depth course for the last three years and is opening its doors once again this year.

The programme offers the opportunity to study the investigation and detection of fraud as well as all aspects of the law governing offences.

Professor Alan Doig from the centre said: "The programme is ideally suited to such people as council officers who need to monitor housing benefit claims and bank staff."

The centre offers a postgraduate certificate and diploma and Master of Arts in Fraud Management in conjunction with the West Midlands Police.

More information can be obtained from the centre on 0151 231 3440.