POLICE have vowed to launch a crackdown on drug-taking in bars and pubs in the Ribble Valley.

Officers from the area’s neighbourhood policing team and a police dog were out patrolling in Whalley and Longridge last night and said they were now investigating incidents of drug use they came across.

No arrests have been made but the team have said they will conduct further patrols at licensed premises in the future.

A spokesman for the Ribble Valley neighbourhood policing team said: “We have conducted numerous checks of pubs/bars in Longridge and Whalley this evening.

“We are now investigating evidence of drugs use in these premises.

“Special thanks to Police Dog Daisy from Lancashire Police’s Dog Unit who assisted.

“We would encourage local residents to report any concerns that they have with drugs use. Ring Lancashire Constabulary on 101 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111 or report it online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or www.lancashire.police.uk/contact-us/how-do-i-report-a-crime.”