AN arrest a day is helping to keep drug dealers away from Kirklees.

Since a specialist drugs squad was set up in the district in June, 2003, it has arrested more than 650 people - an average of one suspected drug dealer a day.

So far 250 have been charged with class A drug trafficking offences, with many more still on bail.

Police have also seized drugs worth just under £2million and assets, such as cash and cars, from suspected dealers totalling more than £600,000.

Many financial investigations are still on-going.

Kirklees District Drugs Team - which has 20 officers - was awarded a Home Office Commendation for Best Practice in Asset Recovery last year.

Anonymous calls from the public led to many of the arrests.

Work by the team, liaising with drugs-help agencies, has led to more than 1,000 drug users being referred into treatment.

The squad's leader, Det Insp Mick Turner, said: "The public has contributed significantly towards these excellent achievements through Dob In A Dealer and the value of their input should not be underestimated.

"They have become our most valued resource in the fight against drugs.

"While we celebrate the success of the team, the local authority continues to ensure drug users are able to access treatment.

"The drug team will continue to target offenders who deal in Class A drugs and ensure there is no place to hide in Kirklees."

He added: "The message is clear. If you deal in drugs, you are on a fast-track to prison.

"If you use drugs you can access treatment and live a crime-free life."

Anyone aware of drug- dealing activity in their area should phone Dob In A Dealer anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Calls are not taped or traced and no police will call.