A POLICE campaign targeted at the supply of drugs in the northern area of Cheshire has been hailed a success.

Over the last three months, Operation Impact has seen police officers and support staff from Runcorn, Widnes and Warrington police stations working together to tackle problem addresses.

They have identified individuals who cause drug-related anti-social problems to residents throughout the area.

Some 37 search warrants have been executed and more than 60 individuals have been dealt with for drugs offences ranging from simple possession offences up to possession with intent to supply offences and drug importation.

Drugs and cash have been seized. A large number of people have been put before the courts.

Detective Sergeant Ian Allen of the northern area Dedicated Drug Unit, said: "This operation has been a huge success on all fronts.

“We have worked together with other agencies to deal with both the causes and effects of illegal drug use on our communities utilizing both enforcement and support.

“We have listened to local residents and acted on reports of antisocial behavior linked to drugs. We have targeted addresses, individuals and areas linked to drug dealing and drug use.”

Operation Impact’s objective was to act upon information provided by local communities in an attempt to tackle anti-social behavior linked to illegal drug use and supply.

Police have also worked with staff from other agencies, such as housing officers, drug treatment teams and council staff in an effort to focus on these drug linked problems together.

To try to break the cycle of addiction that sits behind the drug use and antisocial behavior, police have referred many individuals to drug action teams in Warrington and Halton.

DCI Paul Beauchamp said ‘’Operation Impact makes clear the commitment that the police and partner agencies have to targeting those people that undermine our communities and bring misery to residents through their involvement in the illegal use and supply of controlled drugs.

"The dedication of the staff involved in the operation has been outstanding and I would like to assure the public across Warrington and Halton that we will always to act on the information provided to us.

“The corrosive effect that drug abuse and associated criminality has on our communities is well known, and we are committed to a relentless focus on tackling the problem and targeting those involved. "