PEOPLE in Ribble Valley have been warned not to be lazy when it comes to security just because they live in a nice area.

The message comes from Clitheroe police, who have urged residents to take the same care locking properties and vehicles as some one living in a town centre.

According to Sgt Rob Evans, crime has never been at a lower level in Ribble Valley but that does not mean people should become slack in the fight against criminals.

He said that in recent months a number of drivers in Clitheroe town centre had made the mistake of leaving their cars unlocked - an error thieves seized upon.

Small amounts of cash were taken from cars in the town, thefts that are only reported at a later date.

Sgt Evans said that satellite navigation devices were also tempting to criminals, especially when they are left in full view of the windshield.

He said: "We've had a few thefts of cash and jewellery from homes in Clitheroe, Read and Langho during the day time and we just want people to be vigilant.

"We don't want people to become laxidasical because they live in a quieter area.

"I'd rather we respond to false reports than some one ignoring an incident or thinking it doesn't matter. If there's an alarm going off then just give us a call and we will check it out.

"I can't empasise enough how important reporting things is and making sure that car and homes are locked in the first place."

Despite his warning, Sgt Evans said that the fight against crime in the valley was one they were having success with.

In terms of burglaries, auto crime and assaults Ribble Valley was projected to have 72 offences of this nature for the entire month of August. If the estimate was correct it would be half of 144 offences in the same month last year.

But Sgt Evans still warned people, especially in the west of the borough around Mellor and Balderstone, to be vigilant.

"We get a lot of travelling criminals from places such as Preston coming in to this area and people always need to make sure to keep their property secure," he added.