More than 40 people were searched as part of a Staffordshire Police crackdown on drug possession in Newcastle-under-Lyme town centre last month.

Officers and drugs dogs took part in patrols across the town centre on Saturday 8 August and Saturday 22 August.

The police force confirmed that a total of 44 people were stopped and searched following "positive indications from the drugs dogs".

Staffordshire Police said six people were given a community resolution order after cocaine, cannabis, a THC vape and a grinder were seized.

Chief Inspector Cliff Goodwin, of the Newcastle-under-Lyme local policing team, said: "Detection dogs were deployed during two dedicated operations last month, focusing on removing drugs from the town centre.

"We know that drug possession and supply is often linked to the exploitation of vulnerable people and we are working proactively to protect these people.

"Across both operations, dozens of people were searched and a range of drugs were taken off the streets.

"The activity led to community resolution orders being handed out and multiple dispersal notices issued.

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"Local officers have also done more than 60 hours of foot patrol across the town centre in July and August, resulting in nine vulnerable people being identified and supported through the relevant partner agencies.

"Drugs have no place in Newcastle-under-Lyme and we will continue working to protect the vulnerable."