Activity will include work with schools, colleges and youth groups to raise awareness of the risks of the drug as well as robust police activity to disrupt and prosecute those supplying ketamine.

Ketamine is a Class B drug and over recent years it has become increasingly popular, with eight times more people seeking treatment since 2015 in England and Wales, according to the Department of Health.

Users risk severe health complications including bladder and kidney issues and in some cases, use can prove fatal.

Det Chief Supt Derry Crorken, who is spearheading Operation Shore, said:

“Ketamine use is a national issue, but we are seeing more and more local cases here in Lancashire. Ketamine is not a trip, it’s a trap. It’s addictive and dangerous.

“Sadly, in Lancashire as elsewhere, there has been a rise in young people particularly becoming seriously ill with bladder function problems and kidney issues and in at least one local case, a man has sadly died.

“We’ve already arrested a number of people for supplying ketamine, but it’s crucial we identify others so that we can protect local youngsters and other vulnerable people.

“That is why we’re rolling out Op Shore across Lancashire and why, in partnership with Crimestoppers, I am appealing for the public to come forward with information about those supplying and dealing ketamine in our county. In return, we will take firm action to target suspected offenders and protect our communities.”

Gary Murray from Crimestoppers said:

“We know that people don’t always feel comfortable going directly to the police with information for whatever reason, but I would urge them to report to the independent charity Crimestoppers.

“People can give information to Crimestoppers anonymously via our website or by phone. Information leading to an arrest could lead to a reward of up to £1,000.”

Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said:

“Ketamine destroys lives and harms futures. Its devastating health consequences are well known, and I am funding this campaign because prevention and education are the most effective ways to stop people ever considering the path of ketamine use.

“By expanding Operation Shore across Lancashire, building on the strong and sustained results already seen in the east of the county, we can put early intervention at the centre of our approach. This will sit alongside firm enforcement action against the criminal gangs and drug dealers who bring ketamine and other harmful substances into our communities.

“I would urge anyone with concerns to come forward, including anonymously through Crimestoppers, as we continue working to break the supply chains that put this drug on our streets. By working together across policing, health, education and partner organisations, we can make Lancashire safer and ultimately save lives.”