South Lakes Neighbourhood Policing Team carried out an operation in the Lakes on Saturday (7 Feb) aimed at addressing and preventing recreational drug use at licensed premises during the night-time economy.
During the operation, part of the force’s wider Operation Regulate, neighbourhood officers were joined by colleagues from Westmorland and Furness’s Licencing Department who visited 12 licensed premises across Windermere, Bowness and Ambleside.
They were also assisted by a passive drugs dog who was able to detect individuals who are, or had been, in contact with or possession of drugs.
Several stop searches were also carried out in relation to drug possession, and the team also identified several premises who were in breach of their licence conditions which officers will be following up with.
Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Simon Totten said: “The purpose of this operation was not specifically to target drug dealers; instead, our focus was on individuals who may be using illegal substances recreationally while visiting licensed venues in parts of the Lakes.
“This has been something that has consistently been raised to us as a priority issue for the area.
“While no arrests were made during the operation, several licensing issues were identified which we will look to progress."
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “We want the public to go out and enjoy themselves. However, we won’t abide individuals using illegal drugs in our pubs, bars and restaurants.
“The night-time economy is for everyone and it’s unfair for people to be made to feel uncomfortable or unwelcome due to drug use.
“This operation was also a good opportunity to check in to make sure our licenced premises are following legislation and regulations such as age verification.
“We’re incredibly lucky to live in a county with some of the best pubs in the UK so it’s important that we ensure that everyone can enjoy them and are safe to do so.
“I know the Constabulary will continue to carry out operations like this across the county to keep you safe.”