POLICE made two arrests and recovered contraband tobacco in raids on neighbouring pubs.

Two pepper sprays were also seized by officers executing search warrants at the Bluebell and Ye Olde Fleece, in High Street, Gateshead.

Tuesday's raids were part of Operation Kinetic, which features in Northumbria Police's Freeze Out campaign, in response to information concerning the sale of drugs, stolen and contraband goods.

Police from Gateshead area command and the force's operational support department co-ordinated the raids, in liaison with officers from HM Customs and Excise.

Follow-up inquiries were continuing yesterday.

Inspector Les Pattison, Gateshead town centre community inspector, said: "This is the start of a new initiative focusing on public houses in Gateshead to ensure they are being managed properly and lawfully.

"In the coming weeks, uniformed officers will be visiting public houses on a routine basis to ensure the licensing laws are being complied with and no illegal activity is going on.

"We will be working with licensees to deter criminals from conducting illegal activities, either inside or within the vicinity of the pubs, ensuring they are safer places to visit. Licensees will be given advice and support where necessary."

Insp Pattison said that licensee ignoring the advice should expect a visit.