Ripon mayor, Councillor Andrew Williams, has spoken of his shock at seeing drug-dealing in the street.

Cllr Williams told a Ripon City Council meeting on Monday (September 7) he “witnessed first-hand” a transaction take place while visiting residents to discuss the problem.

He said:

“It was quite concerning to witness at seven o’clock in the evening, in broad daylight, the dealing of drugs in the street.”

The incident, which took place in the Quarry Moor area of the city, prompted Cllr Williams to contact the local police sergeant for a meeting.

He said he had since received correspondence indicating action was being taken:

“Specific resources will be targeted in Ripon in the coming weeks to clamp down on this issue. It was really quite disturbing.”

Cllr Williams told the meeting he had also raised concerns with police about illegal electric bikes.

He said officers had subsequently “apprehended and confiscated” at least three e-bikes. He added:

“I’m also advised that further action is planned in the coming weeks to continue to ensure this scourge is clamped down upon.”