BOBBY Ken Brooks is the latest policeman to start working on the front line in the battle to clean up an area plagued by drugs dealers.

He is the new community officer for the Johnston Street area of Blackburn, which is being targeted by police in a drive to rid the streets of dealers.

But PC Brooks sees his new posting as a "challenge" and believes the community benefits from having a bobby on the beat.

He said: ''The main problems are the drugs, graffiti and juvenile nuisance. My main priority is to maintain a high profile in the area and act as a link between the community and the police.

"I know the area has its problems. But I see it as a challenge and I am looking forward to it." Last week Blackburn police delivered letters to 800 houses in the Johnston Street area, urging residents to shop dealers.

Police observations revealed some dealers were openly selling drugs on the streets.

Residents were given pre-paid envelopes so they could send officers information on drug dealers and other criminal activity in the area.

It is the 28-year-old PC's first posting in Lancashire Constabulary after transferring from Staffordshire Constabulary three weeks ago. He takes over from PC Mick Fazackerly as community policeman in the Johnston Street area.

Before joining the Midlands force, PC Brooks was in Greater Manchester police and worked as community officer in Bolton.

Anyone wanting to contact PC Brooks can ring him in the community beat unit at Blackburn police station on 01254 51212.

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