AN operation targeting organised and serious crime groups has led to eight men from Widnes facing charges related to conspiracy to supply class A drugs.

A total of 24 men and two women all appeared at Chester Magistrates' Court this morning, Friday, after an operation in which 340 officers were involved in Widnes, Merseyside and West Yorkshire on Thursday.

The multi-agency operation has targeted the exploitation of vulnerable people to deal drugs. 

Timothy Allen, 45, of Grizedale Avenue, Leanne Beneke, 27, of Arley Drive, Jack Storey, 24, of Midland Street and David Lomax, 45, of Wavell Avenue, all appeared in court.

Sarah Hall, 41, of Canterbury Road, Steven James Dow, 44, of Alder Drive, Tony James, 27, of Andrew Close, and Carl Buckley, 36, of Risdale, also face charges.

A 35-year-old woman from Widnes was also released with no further action taken.

Police community support officers have carried out patrols since the raids to offer reassurance to residents.