A CRACKDOWN on Class A drugs has paid dividends across the county - with scores of dealers put out of business.

That's the word from police following a three-month 'Opera-tion Crackdown' campaign.

It saw police in 33 areas across the country join forces to target 'crack houses' and close them down under powers in the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003.

In Lancashire 61 people were charged with drug-related offences while more than 31,000 ecstasy tablets were seized along with 538 grams of heroin, 475 grams of cocaine, 281 grams of crack and £88,540 worth of assets.

Detective Superintendent Bob Helm says: "Operation Crack-down offered an opportunity for police to highlight the positive interventions it has made against drug-related crime.

"We have made tackling the open drugs market a top priority and have a strong record of convicting drug-dealers after gathering evidence.

"People have told us that they do not want drug-dealers living or operating in the cities, towns, and villages where they live and work and we will continue to listen to what they tell us."

He adds: "Where swift action is necessary, such as in the case of drug dens, we will be responsive and ensure people do not have to put up with this blight in their midst.

"As for the drug takers, we have taken steps to ensure they are offered as much support and counselling as possible."