POLICE have uncovered drugs paraphernalia during an open land search in Thatto Heath today (Thursday).

Officers say they conducted a search at the grounds of Thatto Heath Crusaders as part of a week of action.

The open land searches have formed part of Operation Scepctre, a force crackdown on knife crime.

The week of action, starting today, will not only see officers out searching open spaces, but also PCSO's on hand in the community to hand out crime prevention advice.

Other areas searched this week by officers have included Iona Gardens in Sutton; Clinkham Woods; King George V playing fields in Haydock and Mesnes Park, Newton-le-Willows.

Police say they discovered the drug-related paraphernalia today in Thatto Heath as part of the operation.

Officers added that the local authority has been been informed of the items located in the area.