Police have hailed their latest high-profile patrols in the wake of the Bradford riots a big success.

Officers involved in the Target Initiative were met with smiles and support as they chatted and mingled with the Bradford public yesterday.

Town-centre traders also showed their support by putting stickers bearing the Target logo in their windows.

Officers visited dozens of stores and pubs in the scorching sunshine to show their presence as part of the three- day initiative - to increase police profile on the streets - which has drafted in 150 officers from across West Yorkshire.

The scheme, West Yorkshire Police's biggest ever crackdown on crime, was launched on Thursday. Last night landlords and store owners welcomed the officers, accepting stickers and beer mats. Police vans also roamed the outskirts of the city.

Inspector Trevor Thackray said it had been a satisfactory second day and he was pleased with the positive response.

"It's all about getting out there and making ourselves visible to the public," he said.

"It gives them confidence that we are there to help with all sorts of crimes and not just the ones treated as priority by police.

"Of course, there are always some people who feel threatened by the police but I think the majority were pleased to see us."

Throughout the day it had been smiles, shirt sleeves and sunshine in Bradford as the city put memories of the recent disorder behind it.

More than 50 extra officers were on foot patrol or horseback around the city's busy retail and transport centres.

By early evening there had been only three arrests - one for drunkenness and two for shoplifting. "We are here to show people the friendly face of West Yorkshire Police," explained Assistant Chief Constable Steve Smith. "Many of the officers here today were caught up in the recent disorder and showed very great bravery.

"Now we have an opportunity to get out and meet the people of Bradford in much better circumstances."

Since Target hit town on Thursday there has been a total of 13 arrests, mainly for drink-related crime or assault.

On Thursday evening there were seven arrests. They included four men arrested for assault following an incident in Centenary Square.

An exhibition about Target Initiative was taking place today in Centenary Square from 11am to 3pm.

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