COUNCILLORS in Barnoldswick have urged residents not to be "merchants of doom and gloom" to avoid putting people off visiting the town.

The call has come following a number of complaints about policing and high-profile spates of vandalism.

Councillors fear that by branding Barnoldswick a "war zone" and using negative phrases, people are being discouraged from visiting the area.

Speaking at a meeting of Barnoldswick Town Council, Coun Margaret Bell said there was the perception that the town was not being policed properly.

But she added: "Inspector Richard Clare explained at the West Craven Area Committee that sometimes you wouldn't see police officers as they are undercover working. They are walking around to see what's going on. Likewise it was said at the Police Authority meeting - it is the new way of policing."

Coun Bell suggested a meeting should be held with Lancashire's chief inspector and members of the Chamber of Trade so that local policing could be explained.

Councillors added that there was a need to put recent incidents in proportion and avoid negative comments.

Members also felt the positive actions by young people did not always receive due recognition.

Coun Allan Buck said the quick response to replacing the town's hanging baskets, which were smashed by vandals, was a positive step to show Barnoldswick would not be beaten.

But he also expressed disappointment that there was a witness to the incident who was not prepared to come forward.

He said: "The inspector said they have got a witness who actually saw everything, but they are not willing to give evidence. There is someone in Barnoldswick who knows who did this and is not willing to come forward.

"When you have got people like this you have got to stand up to them - and that means everyone."

Coun David Whipp added: "I deplore what has happened, but I think it is important that we keep things in some sense of proportion.

"I think we, as individuals, have to be aware of talking the town down. I certainly had someone comment to me about some quotes in the papers which had referred to Barnoldswick as being like a war zone.

"Well I think as regrettable as that incident was, or other incidents, I think that is painting a picture of the town which is not accurate and that does the town a great disservice.

" There is no way in any shape or form that Barnoldswick is a war zone. I think if we use phrases like that then we are actually putting people off from coming here and being merchants of doom and gloom."

Coun Marlene Hill-Crane said: "I would personally expect all the councillors to talk up the town and not involve themselves in careless talk."