BOLTON, named by the Government as one of the 30 areas in the country most affected by drug crime, will now get extra cash to tackle the problem.

Home Secretary David Blunkett today announced that £46 million will be spent in the hot spots on drug testing programmes, a new aftercare system for offenders leaving prison and expansion of Drug Testing and Treatment Orders (DTTOs).

Mr Blunkett also announced a special £50 million fund for local police commanders and will give local crime fighting groups a share of a further £94 million.

Details of exactly how much money will come to Bolton have not yet been announced.

Bolton West MP, Ruth Kelly, welcomed the cash. She said: "Drug crime can tear communities apart and for too long Government has ignored the rehabilitation aspect of the problem.

"I welcome the Government's emphasis on treatment and after care for offenders leaving prison. It is right that local agencies with their expertise are included in developing the strategy."

Mr Blunkett said that the extra funds will help local agencies on the front line to boost the work they do to tackle crime and drug misuse.

He said: "We want to give local partnerships the resources and flexibility to target investment where it will reduce crime and deliver real change on the ground.

"We have identified 30 areas where we will focus our attention to tackle the scourge that drugs cause."

The Home Office said the areas were chosen on the basis that they had the highest crime levels in burglary, theft and shoplifting - crimes closely linked with drug abuse.

Initiatives will include "pre-arrest" programmes to target persistent drug users before they commit crime, drug testing facilities in police custody suites and a 50 per cent increase in the availability of DTTOs.

Mr Blunkett added: "Evidence shows that targeting offenders at all points in the criminal justice system works to reduce reoffending and dependence on drugs.

"The best place for drug using offenders is in treatment and out of trouble. Drug Treatment and Testing Orders are tough love - accept the treatment on offer or face custody."