A blitz on crime in Lancing has been heralded a success by police and residents.

A dozen officers descended on the town centre on Tuesday while British Transport Police went to the railway station and traffic wardens checked vehicles.

The aim of Operation Ruda - Adur spelt backwards - was to tackle the fear of crime in the town and surrounding streets.

Officers in high-visibility uniforms visited pubs, shops and businesses and stopped to talk to people in the street.

Colleagues from the transport police checked tickets and talked to passengers travelling between Lancing and Fishersgate.

Five people were reported for various railway offences and inspectors doubled their normal takings.

Traffic wardens, joined by members of Adur Watch, removed nine abandoned and untaxed vehicles. Nine more are due to be removed over the next few days.

Beat officer PC Mark Reed said: "The aim of the operation is for the police to get out into the community and reassure the public. We are going to go down every street in the area so that we are as visible as possible."

Debbie Arter, owner of Deblins Sandwich Bar in North Road, said: "It is reassuring to see the police about."