REDDITCH police officers were among those receiving a prestigious Chief Constable's Commendation for their dedication and commitment in tackling drug crime in the town.

DCs Gareth Keyte and Martin Grant were presented with the award during a special ceremony in Worcester last week to mark their efforts in seven-month initiative Operation Sabre.

During the evening, four Bromsgrove police officers and a Worcester officer were also commended by West Mercia Chief Constable Paul West.

Operation Sabre, which ran until July, targeted suppliers of Class A drugs such as heroin and cocaine.

Officers arrested 16 people for more than 70 drugs offences across the Redditch area.

Six of these were given prison sentences and antisocial behaviour orders, banning them from the town centre and from using, or threatening or inciting others, to commit violence.

A Redditch police spokeswoman said DCs Keyte and Grant approached the initiative with integrity and professionalism.

She added: "They have also been commended for their dedicated teamwork and commitment during the operation."