CRIMINAL activity on the border of St Helens and Widnes was the target of a police operation.

Officers from Merseyside and Cheshire police forces united for the day of action on Thursday which saw a man arrested on suspicion of drug driving, one vehicle seized and numerous cars searched.

Multiple traffic offences were also reported for issues such as excess speed and using a mobile phone while driving, police say.

Meanwhile, in St Helens searches took place as part of Operation Vermont, which involves teams from across Merseyside Police tackling serious and violent crime.

READ>Knives recovered from drains as part of operation

Police say they worked with St Helens Borough Council, to deploy a gully sucker, which helps to recover weapons and drugs put down drains.

The search recovered two knives.

Divers also searched the Hotties canal and mounted police patrolled the town centre, as part of the offensive.

The operation comes at a time when some businesses continue to express concerns over levels of crime and anti-social behaviour in St Helens town centre.