CRIME-busting Chorley cops have slashed the number of offences in the borough for the second year running.

In the 12 months up to the end of March, crime in Chorley has dropped by almost four per cent, with significant decreases in robberies, house burglaries and thefts of or from vehicles.

And detection rates have increased from 38 to 44 per cent during the same period, with more than 58 per cent of house burglaries being cleared up.

Superintendent John Jones said: "I am very satisfied with the figures. The dedication of the regular police officers, the special constables and the civilian support staff cannot be over-emphasised."

The number of road accidents in Chorley is down nearly nine per cent on last year's figures, with the number of fatal accidents almost halved.

Superintendent Jones said: "Excessive speeding and drink-driving are major causes of accidents. We have maintained a year-long vigorous campaign to target such drivers and it seems to have paid off.

"The number of people breath-tested in Chorley over the past 12 months is double that of the previous year, and we will continue with this policy in the future.

"There has been a slight increase in recorded violent crimes but that's because our domestic violence officer, installed in the past 12 months, has positively encouraged victims to report incidents."

He added: "Almost every officer in Chorley is now patrolling the streets where the public want to see them."

A full breakdown of the figures will be available at the next Police and Community Forum at Chorley's Town Hall on June 10. All members of the public are invited are invited to attend.

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