By RACHEL SPENCER

POLICE in Warrington are staging an open day to give the public an insight into policing in the town, while raising vital cash for St Rocco's Hospice.

The event, on September 24, offers fun for all the family and gives residents a chance to meet their local bobbies and see what happens if they get on the wrong side of the law.

Budding Sherlock Holmeses and Miss Marples can become a detective for the day and crack the clues, then convict a 'criminal' in a typical courtroom drama.

Visitors can appear on their own wanted poster and have their fingerprints taken, watch footage from CCTV in their home town and view the work of the stolen vehicle squad and the domestic violence unit.

Players from Warrington Wolves will also be putting in an appearance.

Sgt Dave Betts, who is co-ordinating the event, said: "It's a long time since Warrington has held an open day and we are hoping to attract as many people as we can to allow people to gain an insight into local policing.

"But it's a fun day as well. There will be lots of things for people to see, like the cells and the inside of the police station.

"We are planning a spot the clues at the scene of the crime competition, role plays and stranger danger presentations for children, and road traffic accident reconstructions and breathalyser displays which will contain a safety message.

"It will be interesting for people to look at police cars and see the gear they wear and the work they do."

Any funds raised during the event will be donated to St Rocco's Hospice, which Warrington police has nominated as its charity for the year.

The open day runs from 11am until 4pm.