POLICE officers from the Crediton Neighbourhood Beat Team and Mid Devon Partners And Communities Together (PACT) team supported by a passive drugs dog and handler took part in a "Pubs Against Drugs" (PAD's) operation in Crediton last Saturday, July 3.

The operation involved officers and a passive drugs detection dog entering licensed premises to identify anyone in possession of illegal substances.

During the operation checks were made at five licensed premises and Newcombes Meadow.

As a result of these checks, four people were stop searched by officers.

Although some drugs paraphernalia was found, no one was found to be in possession of any illegal substances.

Crediton Town Police Community Support Officer David Pilling, said: "We ran a PADs operation at the end of last year and dealt with three people for drugs offences.

"It appears that the last operation had a positive impact on the town and has clearly deterred people bringing illegal substances into licensed premises.

"This operation was run with the full support of all the local licensees who, like us, certainly do not want anyone using or carrying drugs onto their premises."

He added that information from the public is vital in police work against illegal drugs.

He said anyone with information about drugs can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.