DAWN raids on the homes of known drug dealers and burglars today kick-started a major police blitz on criminals operating on troubled Darwen estates.

Officers swooped on several addresses in the Sudell area as part of Operation Edward - aimed at tackling crime, nuisance and disorder suffered by residents.

A 30-year-old woman was arrested for drug related offences and a man in his twenties was also taken to the cells in connection with other crimes.

Property including electrical goods were recovered during the launch of the crackdown which is part of the multi-agency Action for Sudell initiative.

Headed by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, its backers include the police, Blackburn Groundwork, the Youth Works scheme, Victim Support, residents' associations, schools, churches, social services and Blackburn Partnership. Other issues being looked at include housing and environmental problems, stray dogs and the role of residents in the running of their community.

Inspector Stuart Coates, of Darwen police, said: "Operation Edward is intended to have a major, high profile impact in the short term, rooting out the criminals and drug dealers who are an embarrassment and a disgrace to a town with traditional values and a strong community spirit."

Officers will pass on problems they come across during the coming weeks directly to relevant members of the Action for Sudell team.

"The overwhelming majority of the residents of Sudell, St James' and surrounding areas are good, honest and decent people," added Inspector Coates.

"Representatives of all the agencies have committed their resources to improve the physical appearance of the area and the social problems within it."

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