AN investigation is underway after youths caused criminal damage in Rawtenstall Bus Station last night.

Police were first called to the scene amid reports that a group of young people were breaching Covid regulations and threatening staff at the station.

Officers have since found that the damage was inflicted in the toilets.

A police spokesperson said: "Enquiries are on-going to identify those responsible.

"Unfortunately the damage occurred in the toilets and as such positive identification of the offenders will prove difficult.

"As a result of this incident we are informed by the bus station that in future they intend to lock the toilets from 6 pm preventing access to everybody."

Residents have also reported incidents of youths engaging in anti-social behaviour and potential drug use at the nearby Tesco, the subway at the fire station roundabout and near the Church of Latter Day Saints.

The spokesperson said: "These areas are being patrolled as much as possible and we are getting names for the faces identified with education and enforcement being used.

"We want to reassure people that these groups activities are being highlighted by the fact most people are adhering to the lockdown rules so they are standing out more than usual."