ANYTHING that can help rid our communities of the evil of so-called county lines drug gangs can only be a good thing.

This ruthless trade is capable of silently infiltrating rural communities and bringing drugs and related crime more often associated with inner cities to our doorsteps.

Essex is one of the top three targets for London-based county lines gangs.

All too often it is the young and vulnerable who are sucked into their seedy underworld.

County Hall has now pledged £500,000 to help the police fight this pernicious culture of crime.

If this cash can help prevent the drugs gangs getting a toe-hold here, then that must be welcomed.