THE number of under-16s arrested for drug offences in South Worcestershire has fallen over the last three years.

However, figures from West Mercia Constabulary show that children as young as 13 in the area are involved in drugs.

The study shows that between April 2003 and March 2004 there were 70 arrests; 51 during the same period in 2004 to 2005 and down to 41 between 2005 to 2006.

The majority of the arrests were for the possession of cannabis though there are some for supplying the drug and possession with intent to supply. The arrests were dealt with by means of reprimands and formal warnings. On a few occasions the youngsters were charged with the offence.

Supt Sharon Gibbons, of West Mercia Constabulary, said: "We are really happy with the reduction. Though we would like to see fewer, or no youngsters, involved in drugs. Being involved in drugs is known to be a part of the issue of people being involved in other crimes."

She said police work with schools and other agencies to educate children about drugs, including the legal one such as alcohol and tobacco, and also try to divert those children who are involved with drugs away from the scene.

Supt Gibbons said there were a number of reasons why youngsters become involved with drugs. One reason is seeing older siblings using them.

Alan Ford, programme leader for Young Person's Substance Misuse, which is part of Worcester's Substance Misuse Action Team, said: "We are pleased to see any reductions in the number of young people being arrested for drug offences. These figures highlight some of the hard work and efforts of the partnerships involved in addressing young people's substance misuse issues.

"However, there is still more work we could all do to support young people in this county."

In Herefordshire, the number of under-16s arrested for drug offences also fell. In April 2003 to March 2004 there were 35 arrests.

That figure dropped to 30 in April 2004 to March 2005 and 28 during the period April 2005 to March 2006.

SEE TODAYS OPINION