BAIL-dodgers in Worcestershire will be given a romantic reminder to hand themselves in to police this Valentine's Day.

Special Valentine cards will today be dropping through the letter boxes of homes of offenders wanted on warrant for not appearing in court or not paying fines.

They are being sent by West Mercia Constabulary as part of Operation Turn Up 2008.

The red heart design card features the rhyme 'Roses are red, violets are blue, we can't wait to get our hands on you', as well as the force logo and phone number.

As well as the card, those who have skipped bail will have received a personal letter asking them to hand themselves in to police.

Officers will also be visiting offenders' homes and those who are found will be escorted straight to court.

Chief Inspector Garry Higgins, from the West Mercia Local Criminal Justice Board, said: "When we began Operation Turn Up at the end of January the force had approximately 440 outstanding fail to attend court warrants.

"This number varies daily and includes warrants for people living outside West Mercia. The police, including officers from CMPG (Central Motorway Police Group) and Her Majesty's Court Service are working together to identify, locate, arrest and bring offenders to court.

"The message to offenders is if you have failed to turn up at court, time is running out - give yourself up before you get a visit from the police.

"Arrests can happen at any time of the day or night, while you are at work, at home or socialising with friends."

More than 160 Valentine cards have been posted to wanted people by police this week in a bid to get more of them back into the justice system.

Annmarie Comfort, HMCS Head of Operations (Enforcement) for West Mercia added: "The message we are clearly sending out is - Your time is up, comply, pay up or face the consequences.' "Anyone who has received a Valentine's card and has not paid outstanding fines or not attended court regarding a breach of community penalty should contact the court now by telephoning 01952 204567 to avoid arrest."

Bail-dodgers can also call 08457 444888 to speak to an officer at West Mercia Constabulary.

If you know the whereabouts of someone wanted by police you can make an anonymous call to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.