Tackling anti-social behaviour in Barnsley remains a priority for me. The unpleasant and sometimes frightening experiences that local residents have shared with me, plus the scenes I have witnessed for myself, are simply unacceptable.

Recently, a significant number of constituents have been in touch and shared disturbing images of individuals in an unconscious or semi-conscious state in and around Peel Square in particular.

I have again raised my concerns with both South Yorkshire Police and Barnsley Council. Both have provided me with a comprehensive update on the work they are doing to target the influx of Spice onto our streets. They have advised that there is evidence of an organised crime group targeting vulnerable users with a particularly potent variety of Spice. A number of arrests have already been made and the police and the council will continue to work together to shut down the supply of 'Spice' into Barnsley as soon as possible.

I have received a very comprehensive update from Barnsley Council on the action they are taking, which you can read here.

As you can see from this letter, all parties are working together to rectify this problem and to tackle the root causes of the anti-social behaviour. It is completely unacceptable that gangs are operating within our town and I am pleased to see that this is being treated as a priority.

I will continue to monitor this situation and work with both Barnsley Council and South Yorkshire Police in relation to anti-social behaviour across the town.

Barnsley Council are currently running a public consultation of anti-social behaviour in Barnsley. I would encourage people to make their views known. Take part in the survey here.