MORE than 3,000 people have signed a petition calling for emergency measures to tackle Teesside's drugs problem.

The petition, compiled by the Gresham Community Council, demands the Government increase powers to seize drug dealers' property and assets and make it easier for dealers to be sent to prison.

It suggests legislation based on a philosophy of "two strikes and you're out", resulting in long sentences for persistent dealers.

According to those behind the petition, this would both reduce the drugs problem on Teesside and cut off the incomes of international terrorists, such as those behind the atrocities in America.

They will present the petition to Middlesbrough MP Stuart Bell and Councillor Ken Walker, leader of Middlesbrough Borough Council and chairman of Cleveland Police Authority, at Middlesbrough Town Hall today.

Les Broomhead, chairman of Gresham Community Council, said: "In Gresham, we have problems with drugs and prostitution the same as everyone else.

"We have been working well with the police and councillors and a lot of positive things have happened.

"We are trying to build up the community spirit and win back Gresham for the residents but, so far, I don't think the problem of drugs has been dealt with as it should have.

"We have had enough of the namby-pamby ways of handling dealers."

While it is already common practice for police to seize the ill-gotten spoils of drug money, Mr Broomhead said more should be done.

"We are talking about businessmen," he said. "They could have money hidden away or tied up in family members' assets. It would be worth delving a lot deeper."

He said the people of Gresham would back any anti-drugs legislation the Government brought in, and urged others to follow suit in pressing for action.

"I would like to see every community council following this and sending their own petitions off," he said.

Coun Walker said: "I certainly support the view that it is time for the Government to grasp the drugs trade as the number one target in the fight against crime, and I am sure there would be overwhelming support for tough emergency powers.