REDDITCH police will be spreading festive cheer to known criminals this year - by sending them Christmas cards.

It will be the first time such a project has been launched in the town.

The cards are being sent out this week and will each read 'thinking of you at this time of year' with the West Mercia logo.

Det Chief Insp Walters said it was hoped reminding known criminals the police were thinking of them would act as an effective deterrent.