SEVERAL ways of tackling the problem of drugs and drug dealing in Burnley have been suggested after white and Asian communities highlighted it as a major concern.

Police have pledged to provide more Community Beat Officers to work with communities to identify areas of concern. They are also considering setting up a direct "drugs hotline" so people can contact police with information about dealers or drug-related crime in confidence.

Burnley's Community Safety Partnership is to focus on action to reduce drug-related crime.

Police will be asked to produce an Action Plan aimed at tackling visible drug dealing on the streets.

Lancashire Drugs Action Team will work with other agencies, such as Lifeline East Lancashire, to try to reduce treatment waiting time for drug users. The Task Force has also recommended doing more to educate young people about dangers of drug misuse.

Inspector John Clucas said: "We need to tackle the different levels of drug dealing and we work closely with other agencies to try to provide those we arrest with the option of drug treatment programmes. We need to try and make sure those who are arrested do not return to hard drugs."