Police in Bradford have made hundreds of visits and checks on newly-released prisoners this month to make sure they are not re-offending.

Officers in Bradford have paid more than 300 visits in three weeks as part of a pro-active operation to encourage newly-released prisoners to integrate into society.

Police in Bradford South have recalled three people to prison as part of Operation Gift, while Airedale and North Bradford Police made seven arrests for burglary shortly before Christmas, several of which were connected to the initiative.

The operation is one of a number of crime prevention activities across both divisions this Christmas.

These include extra patrols in Bradford city centre and the district’s car parks as well as additional policing in areas with potential drink disorder problems.

Chief Superintendent Allan Doherty, of Airedale and North Bradford Police, said: “Due to the demands which the Christmas season can place upon police, this year has seen both Bradford divisions co-operate very closely to do all we can to try to prevent crime.

"Operation Gift has been a key part of this approach, as it has seen us target those who could re-offend while providing the necessary support to help those who do want to reintegrate back into society.

“The sheer number of visits we have made demonstrates the effort which has been placed into this operation and we are pleased it has succeeded in both providing support and also sending those who have come out intent on committing further crime straight back to prison.”