POLICE are sending Valentine's Day cards to bail dodgers in a crackdown on people who try to evade the justice system.

The cards - which could come with the verse, "Roses are Red, Violets are Blue, We Can't Wait to Get Our Hands On You" - will be dropping through letter-boxes as part of the force's commitment to Operation Turn Up.

And in the second part of the initiative, West Mercia police has also released pictures of selected people from across the force area who are wanted on warrant.

More than 1,000 people are wanted for failing to turn up to courts across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and Worcestershire.

"We know that nationally, for every 100 people bailed to attend a court in connection with an offence, 15 will not turn up," said Chf Insp Richard James, from West Mercia Constabulary's criminal justice support department.

"Their attempts to evade justice cause unnecessary stress and inconvenience for victims and witnesses and delays the court process.

"Bail dodging is a criminal offence and those found guilty can expect additional penalty from the court, including imprisonment.

"The Valentine's card and publicity about our efforts is the next phase to bring bail dodgers back before the courts.

"Come and see us before we see you, is our advice, because arrests may happen at any time of day or night, while defendants are at work, at home or out socialising with colleagues or friends. It could be very embarrassing and inconvenient."

Police are urging those who have dodged bail to give themselves up by attending their local police station.

Tony Breeze, area manager of Victim Support Worcestershire, said the charity fully supported Operation Turn Up.

"We work daily with vulnerable and intimidated victims and witnesses," he said.

"All too often, we see the emotional pain suffered by victims and witnesses who we have helped prepare to give evidence.

"For them to find the strength to attend court, only for the alleged offender not to turn up, can be really devastating."

Anyone with information about someone they believe is dodging bail can call police on a dedicated hotline number, 01905 331995, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.