Police have arrested a teenager on suspicion of class A and class B drug supply and possession.

Officers in Darwen are growing increasingly concerned for the welfare of youths in the town as they believe a number of children are being targeted by criminals to help them sell drugs on the streets.

On Saturday, one teenager was stopped on Olive Lane, with officers discovering them to be in possession of a class A drug and a class B drug.

The youth was arrested for possession offences and was also arrested for being concerned in the supply of such drugs.

As a result an investigation is ongoing.

A spokesperson for the police said: "Yesterday the Neighbourhood Taskforce conducted proactive patrols in your area and as a result of a stop search a youth was arrested on Olive Lane.

"The offences included possession of a class A drug and possession of a class B drug.

"The youth was also arrested for being concerned in the supply of both class A and Class B, the investigation is currently ongoing.

"Children in Darwen are being targeted by criminals and Lancashire Police and the Neighbourhood Taskforce will not tolerate it.

"It is of the upmost importance that you know where your child is.

"If you notice any change in their behaviours which could indicate an involvement in drugs there are people who can help."

Police are urging parents and carers to look out for the common signs that their child might be being targeted.

These could include smoking cigarettes and cannabis, and being in possession of money which parents or carers cannot account for.

Similarly new clothing items, increased mobile phone activity or leaving and frequenting home more often are also signs to look out for.

The spokesperson said: "If you have concerns about you child there are organisations that can offer help and advice such as The Childrens Society - Search County Lines; Nest Lancashire, which was set up to support young people aged 8 to 18 who have been affected by crime or subjected to bullying, threats or harassment; and Young Minds, which offers tips for parents worried about a child or their own parenting skills.

"If you have any current issues involving drugs and affecting your home, street our neighbourhood you can help by providing us with information such as details of times, dates, vehicles and people involved so that we can target individuals involved.

"Lancashire Police and the Neighbourhood Taskforce will strive to protect the young people of Lancashire and you can help."