LANCASHIRE has more than 2,700 drug abusers, with one in nine of those addicted to cocaine, it has been revealed.

The figures have come to light following a report by the NHS National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse in England.

In Blackburn with Darwen, 423 cases were dealt with, 12 of those were cocaine abuse.

In Lancashire, 2,335 cases of substance abuse were reported in 2008-2009.

Of those, 236 people tested positive for cocaine.

Lancashire health bosses had the highest number of cases reported to them in the North West and was the second highest in the region after Liverpool for cocaine addiction.

The National Treatment Agency’s report found that more people are using powder cocaine, seeking help for dependency, and being successfully treated.

Charlotte Billington, communications manager at Lancashire Drug and Alcohol Action Team, said: “Ours is the second biggest team in the country.

"Lancashire has a large further and higher education base and a vibrant night-time economy.

“We recognise that drug use is changing and we are dedicated to ensuring that the services in Lancashire meet the needs of the local population.

"A new service provided by Crime Reduction Initiatives will go live from April 1.

“Anyone worried about drugs, or alcohol, should visit our website at www.ldaat.org.”

Paul Hayes, National Treatment Agency chief executive, said: “Powder cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug which induces psychological, rather than physical, dependence.

“Most users will be treated locally in their communities with talking therapies rather than medication, and our message to users is that if they need help, they can get it and it works.”