Police in Greater Manchester are using aircraft and extra patrols to create a "safe walk" for students.

The route through Salford will be monitored closely by officers and university wardens as part of Operation Hawk.

Officers will be visiting freshers' weeks across the county to advise students on safety issues.

The force is also unveiling a new advertising campaign to educate students in how to avoid becoming a victim of street crime.

Phones marked

Maps of the Hawk Walk safety route are being handed out to students in Salford.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Green said: "Starting university is one of the most exciting experiences of a young person's life and Greater Manchester Police wants to make sure that all students studying within our area enjoy their time here safely."

Students will also be able to get their mobile phones security marked at a unit at Oxford Street in Manchester and near halls of residence in South Manchester.

Operation Hawk was launched two years ago to reduce street robbery in Greater Manchester.