A CAMPAIGN by Lawkholme families against drug dealers is being backed by West Yorkshire's Police and Crime Commissioner.

Mark Burns-Williamson is supporting the call from parents for fellow residents to report street dealers to the police.

Mr Burns Williamson, who visited Lawkholme earlier this year, said he had been concerned to hear about the latest problems in the neighbourhood.

He said: “Residents must come forward if they have information about drug dealing in the area.

“It has to be a joint effort between the police, the council and the community.”

The Keighley News last month reported calls by community activists activist Fulzar Ahmed for residents who witnessed criminals in action to report them to police.

He claimed that parents in Lawkholme were moving their families away in a bid to protect their children from the menace.

Mr Ahmed, 32, who was born and brought up in Lawkholme, warned that the exodus to areas like Riddlesden and Highfield would continue if the area continued to be blighted by drugs.

He said: “Parents 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.”

Mr Burns-Williamson visited the Emily Street mosque in Lawkholme, and nearby Eastwood Primary School, in February to speak to members of the local community.

The commissioner, who oversees policing in West Yorkshire, discussed topics including crime-related problems, and assured residents he would do his best for the community.

Mr Burns-Williamson this week told the Keighley News that there had been action by the authorities since Mr Ahmed voiced his concerns.

He said: “Police and councillors have agreed funding for CCTV, which I think is important. Patrols have been stepped up.”

Mr Burns-Williams said it was important that residents in the Lawkholme area played their part to wipe out drug dealing.

He said: “If people are aware of this activity I would urge them to report it to the police on 101 or call Crimestoppers.

“We are work closely with Crimestoppers who provide an anonymous system. This information is passed to the police.”

Mr Burns-Williamson said that if people were not happy with the response, they could contact his office by emailing contact@westyorkshire.pcc.pnn.gov.uk or calling 01924 294000.

Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111.