Hampshire Constabulary says its officers have spent the week disrupting the supply of class A drugs on the Isle of Wight.

It has been carrying out a series of operations, including working with a local metal detectorist to sweep areas where drug dealing is suspected.

Knives have been seized as a result.

On Tuesday, the force executed a drugs warrant in Shanklin.

A 57-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs.

Read more: Shanklin woman arrested following early hours drugs raid

Officers have also visited local schools, as well as speaking with taxi firms, hotels and hospitality businesses, to educate them around spotting the signs of child exploitation.

The work has involved trips to Cowes, Newport, Freshwater, Yarmouth, Chale, Rookley, Totland, Newchurch and Brighstone.

Neighbourhood officers were joined by the Dog Unit to carry out some work at the Royal Mail sorting offices too.

As the Isle of Wight County Press reported yesterday, this was in part to target the supply of class A drugs coming via the postal service, but it also served as a training exercise for the dogs.

Read more: Police operation targets Class A drugs at Island's Royal Mail depots

Officers have also been engaging with the harbours at Yarmouth, Cowes, Newtown and Shalfleet to share information around possible drugs supply routes.

Hampshire Constabulary said: "We all need to be responding to the County Lines threat, whether it’s those in the education and welfare sectors, hire vehicle companies used by dealers to transport couriers, or the short-term rental sector which gangs use to accommodate couriers. Please be vigilant and report suspicious activity.

"Members of the public can help too. The best advice is to trust your instincts – if somebody shows signs of mistreatment, or a child seems to be travelling long distances or is unfamiliar with a locality, you can report suspicions to us, or British Transport Police if on the transport network, on 101. "Alternatively you can report 100% anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org

"Even if someone isn’t involved in County Lines dealing, they may be being exploited in some other way, so it’s always worth speaking out. If you see a crime in action or a life is in danger please call 999."