EIGHT men were arrested in police raids on the homes of suspected drug dealers in villages on the outskirts of a city today.

Today's operation, in the Durham area, was "uniquely" said to have been down to the dedicated work of a police community support officer (PCSO).

More than 100 officers from the Durham force were involved in the raids, the latest in the continuing Operation Nimrod drive aimed at removing street level dealing around the county.

All those targeted were said to have been identified through the efforts of the support officer, who has asked not to be identified.

The PCSO, with more than six years service, not only pinpointed and logged their activities, but was also involved in surveillance operations, checking CCTV coverage and helping to prepare for the arrests.

As colleagues in protective gear carried out some of the raids, the officer was present to see the outcome of the "invaluable" groundwork.

It was said to be the first time a PCSO has been involved to such a degree in such special operations in the Durham force area.

The officer said: "Joining the police was something I always wanted to do, but because of family commitments I never had the opportunity until a few years ago.

"I've suffered in the past from anti-social behaviour and I know drug dealing generates that.

"If unchecked, it can easily blight communities.

"As a PCSO I'm here to help and support our communities in any way I can.

"Through my patrols I know almost everybody in the city and the information they pass to me is invaluable in the fight against crime, and drugs.

"My involvement in today's Nimrod raids is simply a development of the work that I do on a daily basis and I love it."

Chief Inspector Colin Williamson said following the previous Nimrod operation in Durham six months ago new dealers began to appear to take the place of those who were arrested.

But Chief Insp Williamson said: "This officer became our eyes and ears.

"The intelligence gathered from patrols on the streets and talking to the public was simply invaluable "Links within the community and the trust built up by PCSOs with local people over the years have paid dividends.

"This officer has played a unique, and major part in today's operation which reinforces the message that drug dealers are not wanted anywhere in the Durham Constabulary area.

"We will do everything in our power to drive them out and make life very uncomfortable for them."

The raids, at addresses in Brandon, Belmont, Meadowfield and Kelloe, were watched by community leaders who were escorted to the raid sites.

All those arrested, aged from their early 20s to mid 30s, are being held at local police stations where they will be questioned later today.

Notices went up next to the raided properties to inform neighbours about the nature of the operation.

Leaflets are being distributed in nearby streets outlining the reason for the raids and urging people to contact the police with any information not only about drug dealing but all criminal activity.

Chief Insp Williamson said all information is acted on and even the most innocuous could prove to be the last piece of a bigger picture allowing officers to take action.

He added that police are working with a number of agencies, including the Drug and Alcohol Action team to help provide as much support as possible to help drug users receive treatment for their addiction.