POLICE leading a North Yorkshire crime-busting campaign have pledged not to relent over the festive season.

More than 65 tip-offs about criminal activity have been received since the launch of Operation Ratcatcher across the county last month.

The expanded campaign, which seeks to draw vital information about lawbreakers from the public, was first championed by the Evening Press last year.

Superintendent Kevin Doyle asked residents to keep up the flow of information over December and into the New Year.

Mr Doyle, who is co-ordinating the North Yorkshire Police and Crimestoppers operation, said: "The Ratcatchers will still be operating during the season of goodwill.

"Thieves are traditionally active in the run-up to Christmas, and we will be out there looking for them."

Officers have already been given information about robbery, burglary, sexual offences and the misuse of drugs, including crack cocaine, heroin and ecstasy.

Other tip-offs have been received about theft, vehicle crime, motorists who drink and drive and individuals who are wanted on warrants.

In total, 80 arrests connected to calls made to Crimestoppers were made in North Yorkshire last month. However, not all of these were linked to Operation Ratcatcher.

DC Hugh Carruthers, of Crimestoppers, said the public response had been "amazing".

He said: "Some of the information from the local community results in direct arrests, but in the majority of cases the intelligence becomes part of a deeply- intense and complicated jigsaw puzzle illustrating a much larger picture of criminal behaviour."

If you have information about criminal activity in York or North Yorkshire phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. The call is free, you do not have to give your name and you may receive an award.

Updated: 09:32 Saturday, December 06, 2003