A TEMPORARY bobby is to become a permanent fixture in Padiham town centre, police have announced Padiham was given its own officer temporarily four months ago - but at a Padiham Council meeting this week police said that position, currently occupied by PC Matt Lunney, was now permanent.

Burnley Chief Inspector Chris Bithell said: "Padiham town centre is a very safe area, certainly as far as the crime statistics are concerned. However, there is clearly a need to increase police visibility and reassurance which is why we appointed PC Matt Lunney on a trial basis four months ago.

"His presence appears to have had a significant impact on the town. Shoplifting offences are down and initiatives like the pub watch scheme have been re-invigorated.

"With that in mind, we have decided to make the town centre post a permanent one - something I hope that traders and town centre visitors alike will welcome."