POLICE in Chorley are urging residents to be their "eyes and ears" to help them tackle the problem of drugs.

Inspector Andy Maughan wants members of the public to work with the police to drive the criminal element from the town and send a clear message that drugs will not be tolerated.

He said: "The public can assist us greatly by passing on information and intelligence that helps us target our resources and ensures offenders are identified and offences both detected and prevented.

"He said that results of the Crime and Disorder audit for the area revealed the public's concerns were firmly focused on tackling drug offenders and offences.

He said: "The public have sent us a very clear message that they do not want people who illegally deal drugs to live among them.

"We want to work together and encourage a Residents Against Drugs approach."

Chorley south east ward councillor Steve Holgate, a former chairman of the Chorley Police and Community Forum, is also urging people 'in the know' to help stamp out drugs in the town.

He said: "The members of the community have to take some responsibility for what goes on around them as well.

"If people are not prepared to be part of the solution then they are part of the problem.

"As long as anybody with information is treated with discretion then they have a responsibility to play their part."

Anyone who has any suspicions or information should contact the police on 01257-246247, or they can call CRIMESTOPPERS anonymously on 0800-555-111.