REDDITCH's new police boss has spoken out to quell fears the town has a growing drug problem.

The Advertiser previously reported that police seemed to be cracking down on drug use in the town.

It followed a drugs raid at a home in Batchley after a tip-off from neighbours where a small cannabis growing operation was found.

The plants have been seized and an investigation is underway.

There were also reports of drugs being found in a children's play area in Southcrest, and police officers 'reminding' residents Cannabis is a class B controlled substance and possession is a criminal offence.

"We are in Redditch... not Amsterdam!" they said.

A number of readers got in touch saying they think the area does have a drug problem.

However, a number said that they were not worried.

Lee page, Safer Neighbourhood Team Inspector for the district, said: "There is no evidence to suggest Redditch is affected by illegal drugs any more or less than other towns of a similar size and makeup.

"There is lots of work ongoing to tackle drug supply and use within Redditch and information from the community forms a crucial part of this.

"So what I would encourage is for anyone with any concerns about drugs in their area to contact officers on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anomyously on 0800 555 111.