A CRIME and clean-up blitz is underway in Huddersfield.

The latest in a series of two-day Kirklees Focus campaigns which target specific areas is concentrating on Bradley, Riddings, Deighton and Hillhouse today after beginning yesterday ).

It coincides with the half-term holidays to target anti-social behaviour and divert youngsters away from crime and into sports and other activities organised by Kirklees Council.

Police are also targeting people suspected of stealing copper cable and then burning the plastic off before selling it to scrap dealers.

Traffic police using a roadside computer called the Automatic Number Plate Recognition system have been looking to catch cars linked to crime and people committing motoring offences. The ANPR scans the number plate and alerts the police immediately if the driver is wanted, disqualified or the car is untaxed, uninsured or has no MOT.

Sgt Mick Semenczuk, of Huddersfield Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We are working closely with Kirklees Council and other organisations to improve people’s quality of life and reduce the fear of crime.’’

Grotspot areas have been identified and are being cleaned up by Kirklees Rangers while Kirklees Housing will be dealing with homes where there have been complaints about noise and anti-social behaviour.

Kirklees Youth Services are out and about telling youngsters about the activities on offer.

There are high-visibility patrols throughout the areas and crime prevention leaflets posted through letter boxes.

Police and Trading Standards officials are reminding shops about the law selling fireworks. Now only peopled aged over 18 can buy them.

Fire officers are visiting homes offering people free safety checks. Free smoke detectors can be fitted in the homes of elderly and vulnerable people.