PARENTS in Lawkholme are moving their families away in a bid to protect their children from the scourge of drug dealing on the streets.

Now residents have been urged to take action to rid their neighbourhood of the growing problem.

A Keighley community activist wants those witnessing criminals in action to report them to police, and warned the exodus will continue if the area continues to be blighted by drugs.

Fulzar Ahmed, 32, said: “I was born and brought up in Lawkholme, and I’m still in touch with people who live there.

“They say they can see drug dealing happening in front of their own eyes, and feel they can’t do anything to stop it.

“The older generation are seeing their children being influenced by those involved in drug dealing.

“I know of a large number of Bangladeshi people who are moving away to places like Riddlesden and Highfield, and the drug activity is one of the reasons why they’re leaving.

“Unless the community gets together and says ‘we’re not going to tolerate this anymore’, then it will continue.

“There are police patrols, but these guys [the drug dealers] know how to avoid them. The police can only do so much, I appreciate that.”

Responding to Mr Ahmed, Keighley MP Kris Hopkins said: “I’ve got to applaud him for standing up and saying this. It can’t be easy.

“I’ve been trying to get local community leaders to address this issue, and I’ve offered to stand alongside them. But all too often they are afraid to put their heads above the parapet. It’s important for the council and community leaders to get behind this young man and support what he’s trying to do.”

Mr Ahmed, who now lives in Highfield, claims teenagers as young as 14 are involved in the illegal trade. He also wants CCTV to be installed at the worst drug-dealing hotspots.

His comments follow last month’s Keighley News story about drug takers’ needles being found inside abandoned cars in a Lawkholme car park. Sharps were discovered by teenagers in three vehicles close to a children’s centre.

Keighley Central Ward councillor, Abid Hussain revealed funding has now been approved by Bradford Council for CCTV to be installed in Parson Street.

“We’re working with the community, and the police are doing an excellent job,” he said. “But this does take time; there won’t be results overnight.”

Sergeant Diane Collins, of the Keighley Area Neighbourhood Team, said: “We would ask for people to report any concerns or suspicions regarding drug dealing or drug usage to the police by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”