POLICE say they will step up patrols at a church's grounds after reports of drug dealing at the site.

Officers said they have received complaints of illegal drugs being dealt in the grounds of Emmanuel Wargrave Church on Wargrave Road, Newton-le-Willows.

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In a post on social media, officers said they will be spending more time in the vicinity after reports of drug dealing in the grounds of the Anglican church.

St Helens Star:

St Helens Police said: "We’ll be spending more time there following up on complaints about drug dealing in the grounds".