Runcorn drug addicts urged to seek professional help (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Police offer support for drug addicts following crackdown on cannabis suppliers

4:30pm Thursday 1st November 2012 in News By Barbara Jordan

DRUG addicts are being offered support following the biggest ever crackdown on cannabis in Runcorn.

Cheshire Police smashed an organised criminal gang which netted £2 million a year supplying cannabis across the town.

Operation Gram involved 300 officers as 28 properties were searched in a dawn raid on September 5.

Some 31 people, including 27 men, two women and two juveniles, have since been charged with conspiracy to supply cannabis.

Officers from Runcorn Neighbourhood Policing Unit are now working alongside partner agencies to provide help and advice to drug users.

Residents are invited to Palacefields community centre on Tuesday, November 6, fro, 9am to 3pm,  for professional support.

Around 35 people attended a similar event in Halton Brook last month.

Inspector Gareth Lee said: "We are aware that the action as part of Operation Gram has had an impact on some people within the local community who may be involved in drug misuse.

"The continuing efforts of officers are in a bid to address the root cause of drug misuse and to help those who may need advice and support in kicking their habit and changing their lifestyle.

"We are urging people  to seek advice and support from the appropriate agencies.

"A similar event last month was successful and a number of people came along on the day and engaged with the relevant agencies.

"Illegal drugs can have a major impact on the local community. It is an issue we take extremely seriously and we devote all the resources we can to tackling the issue.

“We are committed to tackling the underlying issues of cannabis misuse and improving the quality of life of local people."

Anyone with information about drug misuse can call Cheshire Police on 101.