A crime prevention community fund-raising event hosted by Preston Police recently has been hailed a success.

At Sainsbury’s supermarket in Deepdale, officers helped fit 110 cars with special free number plate screws that make it more difficult for thieves to steal them

Thieves often use false plates to commit crimes such as stealing from petrol stations.

The crime prevention community fund-raising event helped raise £140. Motorists generously made donations to have the screws fixed, money going to the Katy Holmes Trust.

PS Mike Sampson said, “It was great to get out and meet local shoppers. It gave us the opportunity to talk to local residents and to offer them crime prevention advice.

“Although car number plate crime is not a large problem in the area, we wanted to reassure residents that we are aware that these crimes do happen and we are taking preventative action.

If you missed this event another will be held at Booths Food hall on Sharoe Green Lane, Fulwood on Wednesday 23 October from 10am until 2pm.

The Katy Holmes Trust is a local charity dedicated to raising awareness of paediatric brain tumours and raising money to fund research in memory of 10-year-old Katy Holmes, who sadly died in January 2012 after suffering with the condition. Find out about the charity on-line at www.katyholmestrust.co.uk