ARMED police and helicopters are to protect security vans during the run up to Christmas.

Raids on cash-in-transit vehicles rise at this time of year, prompting forces across the region to joined up to tackle the problem.

Police helicopters will also track the vans while patrols will be mounted near pick-up and stop-off points.

Officers will also use CCTV systems and number plate recognition software.

Det Supt Mike Whiting, of Greater Manchester Police, told BBC Manchester: "We are committed to tackling robberies and in particular cash-in-transit robberies.

"However, we will not become complacent and are determined through such operations to target these criminals and ensure that they are brought to justice."