BOSSES of a Bolton car park have been rewarded for joining the fight to drive down car crime.

The 984-space car park at The Valley Leisure Park in Eagley Brook Way, Bolton, has achieved Secure Car Park status.

It follows the introduction of security measures which include ten pan-and-tilt CCTV cameras recording cars using the car park which serves the UCG cinema, Atlantis nightclub and a host of restaurants .

Owners REL Leisure Management also employs a team of security guards who monitor the CCTV screens and patrol the car park until 3am.

The car park passed a series of security checks to achieve its award from the Association of Chief Police Officers.

Supt Kevin Mulligan, of Astley Bridge Police, said: "It is an excellent practice for businesses to get involved in the Secure Car Park scheme. It is noticeable that car crime dramatically reduces."

Chris Waters, Bolton Police's crime reduction adviser, urged any car park operator interested in joining the scheme to contact him.

The officer, who is based at Astley Bridge Police Station, also urged motorists to play their part in the fight against car crime.

He said: "If motorists could be diligent in reducing the opportunity for car crime by remembering never to leave any items on view, the figures for car-related crime would be greatly reduced."

For further information, contact PC Waters on 0161 856 5746.