MEASURES to prevent cases of child exploitation have been labelled as 'high on the agenda' by Warrington Borough Council.

Cllr Jean Carter, executive board member for children and young people's services, insisted the matter was a significant priority for the council to avoid similarities to numerous high-profile cases which have taken place in other parts of the country.

"It is high on the agenda, we have just discussed it at a meeting," she said, on Thursday.

The issue was also discussed at a meeting between Warrington North Conservative candidate Richard Short and Cheshire crime commissioner John Dwyer last week.

"During the meeting with the commissioner, Mr Dwyer, it was clear to see that law and order really does mean a lot to him," said Mr Short.

"The big things discussed were as I expected really - consisting of issues like drug crime, slavery, child exploitation and how to monitor each of those closely.

"The law are going to come down heavily on anyone who does commit serious crimes."

Mr Short also acknowledged the importance of keeping a close eye on the lesser crimes in the area to ensure safety across the town.

"We also discussed issues such as how to tackle the everyday crimes in the neighbourhoods," he added.

"Along with these, there are also many other issues on the police crime commissioner's radar and I'll be keeping in constant touch with him to make sure they stay there."