FAMILIES enjoying the attractions at Middlebrook are leaving their cars in some of the best guarded parks in the country.

The vast car parks at Horwich have been handed an award after police visited the site and decided it reached the relevant criteria.

The facilities have been run by national firm Emerson and Orbit Securities since the leisure and retail park opened in 1998 and they received the award from Supt Stuart Bailey, from Astley Bridge station.

Chris Waters, crime prevention advisor, said the Association of Chief Police Officers only gave the Secure Car Park Award to locations that met high standards.

He added: "A number of people, including myself, came to have a look at the facilities, such as signage, lighting and perimeter fencing, and they are very good.

"They also have a great camera system at Middlebrook."

But despite the car parks being given the award, Mr Waters also warned motorists to always be on their guard.

He added: "You have to take care on any car park.

"If someone leaves an expensive jacket on their back seat then even the best facilities in the world won't stop someone putting a brick through the window."