CLASS A drugs worth thousands of pounds have been seized following a series of police raids.

Twenty officers were involved in early morning strikes at three houses in Consett and Hamsterley Colliery, in the north-west part of County Durham.

Two men aged 19 and 25, from Stanley, and a 24-year-old man, from Leadgate, were arrested for being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs at a house in Tyne Avenue, Leadgate.

The house was searched by a specialist team including drugs dogs and a substantial amount of substances were seized.

Police believe they have a street value of around £5,000.

One man, aged 33 and from the local area was arrested at a house in Hamsterley Colliery for possession of a class A drug and was given a caution.

A further warrant was executed at another house in Hamsterley Colliery where suspected stolen property was seized and is currently being identified.

Inspector Keith Wardle, of Consett Police said: “We hope today's operation sends a clear message that we will destroy and dismantle drugs supply on the streets of north-west Durham.

“This planned co-ordinated action has seen a significant amount of drugs seized and four men arrested, intelligence gathered today will lead to further action, there is nowhere to hide.

“Anyone who suspects drug dealing activity in their neighbourhood should call us on 101 and be rest assured that we will take action against those who attempt to damage our communities.”