Volunteer police officers have arrested two men and seized cocaine and cannabis.

The substances were recovered along with cash as part of an ongoing initiative to reduce knife crime and associated offences including drug dealing.

On Saturday a team of 14 officers from the Special Constabulary carried out proactive checks in and around the town.

At around 6.15pm a patrol stopped a vehicle seen driving erratically in James Whatman Way.

Two men were detained after multiple deal bags, believed to contain Class A drugs as well as cannabis, were discovered inside a bag.

Around £700 in cash was also seized.

A 27-year-old man from Maidstone and a 22-year-old man from Hastings were arrested in connection with the supply of drugs. They were later released pending further investigation.

Volunteer officers also assisted with foot patrols of the town centre, carrying out checks in busy areas, including Lockmeadow, Brenchley Gardens and Week Street.

Special constables have full police powers, equipment and uniform and who work alongside regular officers at Kent Police. They give up a minimum of 16 hours of their own time every month, to help police an area of their choice.

Maidstone Chief Inspector Ray Quiller said: "We are always extremely grateful for the support of officers from the Special Constabulary, who gave up their free time to help local police officers keep our communities safe.

"As well as detecting offences, special constables contribute in a number of different ways, which include enhancing a visible policing presence throughout the town and helping us to also glean valuable intelligence around the movements of people who are known to us.

"We will continue to repeat this type of operation in the future, which make people who may be carrying drugs or weapons think twice.’

Anyone who is interested in joining Kent Police as a special constable can find out more by visiting www.kent.police.uk/jobs-recruiting-now/special-constables/