POLICE have upped patrols to try and crackdown on reports of drug use and anti-social behaviour problems.

Officers have received a number of complaints regarding youths behaving in an anti-social behaviour around the Tesco supermarket site in Chard.

They have also received an increasing number of calls from members of the public who have witnessed either drug use or potential drug supply in the town.

PC Paul Thomas of Chard Police said: “The beat team has upped its patrols and liaised with Tesco staff after we received reports of anti-social behaviour incidents happening at the store.

“Several youths have been identified and parents have been spoken to.

“We aim to proactively police this emerging trend and encourage local residents who may have witnessed suspected drug supply to get in touch with us.”

People can phone police on 101 to report any drug incidents.