A THREE-month crackdown on hard drugs has been hailed a success after 158 arrests and the seizure of more than £403,000-worth of narcotics.

Crack houses across the Cleveland Police area received early morning calls as officers acted on tip-offs from residents, whose lives have been blighted by drugs.

During Operation Crackdown, officers closed six crack houses.

Chief Inspector Gary Stephenson, who led the operation, said: "This means six small communities do not now have to put up with the nuisance, disorder and misery associated with illegal drug activity surrounding the premises.

"I would like to thank all the members of the public for their support during the campaign and hope that the police activity in their areas has made significant improvements in their quality of life."

Anti-drugs campaigner Tina Williams, of Panic (Parent and Addicts against Narcotics In the Community) welcomed the operation, but warned: "We get a lot of girls who prostitute themselves for drugs, and crack cocaine only gives them an intense, short-lived high, so they are back working straight away to pay for their next fix.

"We certainly applaud the police's efforts and hope that the clampdown continues, because crack is an evil drug."

Police have assured residents that their anonymity will be protected if they give information.

Ch Insp Stephenson said: "No-one should feel that they have nowhere to turn for help or action. I want to reassure everyone that, while the campaign has finished, the police activity has not."

Anyone with information about drug-dealing is asked to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.