THE police helicopter and armed officers will escort security vans as they deliver cash to businesses around Merseyside in the run-up to Christmas.

Merseyside Police have joined forces with officers across the North West and the security industry to launch a joint operation targeting cash-in-transit robberies.

This year's regional campaign launhed today and will see officers using high-visibility and covert patrols on the ground and in the air to escort security vehicles as they carry out their deliveries.

Other tactics will include armed police vehicles escorting high-risk security vans, CCTV monitoring, and patrol cars following cash-handling vehicles.

All cash containers will include either Smartwater or a dye which will be released when they are opened marking the notes so they are  unusable and traceable.

There were 52 cash-in-transit raids across Merseyside from 2013 to 2015, although the number of incidents have decreased.

Fourteen robbers have being convicted and sentenced to more than 80 years in prison.

Detective Inspector Jon Smith from Titan’s regional intelligence unit, said: "The region has seen a significant fall in cash-in-transit robberies in recent years but we are not complacent and we are determined to make sure criminals do not see these types of offences as easy ways to make money, because they most definitely are not.

"Our message to those planning on carrying out cash-in-transit robberies in the run-up to Christmas is clear - we will find you and we will make sure you spend this Christmas and many more to come behind bars away from your family and loved ones.

"Robberies that target cash-in-transit vehicles, banks, post offices and commercial businesses are often violent offences that can result in life-changing mental and physical scars on those who find themselves confronted by these criminals.

“This is by no means a victimless crime. These robberies can cause deep distress to those at the brunt of the attacks, who are just trying to earn an honest living."

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Richardson from Merseyside Police's Matrix unit added: "While cash-in-transit attacks are falling in Merseyside we are determined to ensure we continue to see year on year reductions.

"We want the message to be heard loud and clear that anyone thinking about getting involved in these crimes will be found and they will feel the full force of the law."

Police are asking the public to be vigilant and help stop the violence by reporting any suspicious activity in the run up to the festive season to their local force by calling 101, or to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always call 999.