Heroin is tightening its grip on Ryedale - and crime is rising as a result.

Police have identified a number of core heroin users in the district.

Now they want householders to report anyone they suspect is dealing in the drug.

Sergeant Ian Woolley, of Malton police, said although Ryedale was one of the lowest crime areas in the UK there was a small but significant number of heroin abusers.

He said: "We have noticed a steady increase in users.

"There are serious concerns about the fact the addicts will be driven towards crime such as burglary and theft to fund their habit.

"More seriously though - and this is of greater concern to us - they may start dealing and getting others hooked because this is a far easier way of making money.

"The problem's in danger of worsening and we are just at the stage where we must stop it as quickly as we can," said Sgt Woolley.

"We are appealing to residents to come forward and tell us if they think there is any sort of drug-dealing taking place in their area.

"With the help of local residents we have the potential to beat this problem.

"Having said this, we do not want people thinking places like Pickering and Malton are full of drug users."

Anyone with information should phone Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Updated: 12:27 Monday, February 26, 2001