Criminal damage incidents in the Southern division of Lancashire, which includes South Ribble and Chorley, have reduced dramatically over the last two years.

Police want to continue to carry forward this trend and reduce incidents of damage even further.

The campaign includes:
Increased patrols in hot spot areas;
crime prevention advice given to those most at risk to damage in order to help reduce offences; and
education packages will be delivered throughout all local schools to make pupils aware of the consequences of causing damage;
putting up warning posters informing offenders of the penalties that can be imposed and appealing for information from the public.

The campaign is being launched to raise awareness amongst people to the consequences they face for smashing a window or spraying graffiti.

Officers will take action against anyone committing damage and people need to know that they could face a fine or even be prosecuted.

Schools across the area will be visited by their local neighbourhood policing officers who will give a presentation on the type of damage being caused in communities.

The children will be educated on the different types of damage being caused to the consequences they could face should they commit it.

Ch Insp Jon Bullas said: "Criminal damage is a threat to the majority of local residents. People see graffiti or broken windows in their community or experience the misery of having their car wing mirror knocked off and this makes them feel unsafe.

"Criminal damage is an issue which we have always taken seriously, however we are now stepping up our efforts in order to further prevent and detect offences. We're doing a lot of work to address the issue – including stepping up patrols in affected areas and taking positive action against offenders.

"However, education is also a key part of the campaign; explaining to youngsters what constitutes criminal damage and what might happen to them if they are caught damaging homes or cars.

"Our message is: 'Damage is not acceptable'."

As part of the campaign the police are also appealing to people who see the damage being done.

Ch Insp Bullas said: "I am urging local residents to back our campaign by continuing to report incidents and by coming forward with any information they may have about offenders. They can do that by speaking to their local neighbourhood police officer, or calling Crimestoppers free and anonymously on 0800 555 111.