ROBBERIES in Bolton have fallen by a third, according to latest police figures.

There was a 29 per cent reduction in reported incidents between April and November, 2003, compared with the same period in 2002.

There has been a number of crackdowns aimed at reducing the number of robberies. Police and officers from the town's Robbery Unit have also arrested a number of prolific offenders who are now serving prison sentences.

Chief Insp Pat McKelvey of Bolton Police said: "We have provided extra patrols in the town centre and linked with other agencies including the organisations holding private car park contracts, APCOA, Town Centre Ambassadors, security teams, CCTV operators, ambulance service and fire brigade. It has created a safer shopping environment for visitors and the community."