Police are tackling drug use and supply in Whitehaven following concerns raised by residents.

A number of arrests were made last month, including a man who was found in possession of a Class A drug after being removed from a nightclub.

The police crackdown comes after residents cited drug use and supply as one of the main issues during officer foot patrols in the town.

Officers conducted a drugs warrant at Kinniside Avenue in Mirehouse on October 16. Cannabis and drug paraphernalia were seized during the warrant. Investigations continue.

Then on October 17, a man was arrested after he was found in possession of cocaine. The man was removed by security staff at Joe Bananas before officers conducted a search.

He was cautioned for the offence and will be nominated for a Pub Watch ban - which prevents him visiting licensed premises.

A man has also been arrested for driving and drug offences. Officers stopped a vehicle in Mirehouse on October 6.

A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of driving without insurance, driving without a licence and driving under the influence of drugs. He remains released under investigation as enquiries continue.

A police spokesman said: “Our officers always listen to the concerns of our communities and as such a number of actions have been taken regarding drugs issues.

“This type of work is also one of our priorities all-year-round and will continue to be so.

“Drug crime negatively affects communities and can, in some cases, involve the unscrupulous exploitation of vulnerable people for criminal gains.

“We will continue to robustly target offenders.

“We appeal to all of the community to help us – anyone with information can always ring us on 101.”

Carl 'Wammo' Walmsley, who represents Mirehouse East on Whitehaven Town Council, said: "I'm one of the most anti-drugs men you will meet but I am also a realist.

"Whitehaven, like any town or city it the whole country, is rife. Drugs is happening, Drugs have happened for a long time and I've no doubt will continue to happen for an even longer time.

"I would just like to remind people that it is illegal and of the obvious dangers drugs can bring for themselves and other people around them.

"I'd just like to praise the pubs that try there upmost to combat the problem in their establishments and I hope the police continue to crack down and get some of these drugs off our streets."