A POLICE officer at the forefront of a long-running operation that smashed a huge 'legal high' problem on Taunton's streets has warned the trend is sneaking back again.

Sgt Neil Kimmins and the town centre police team managed to persuade a court in 2014 to slap a temporary closure order on the Hush shop, in Bridge Street, following widespread anti-social behaviour linked to products sold there.

The owner then decided not to re-open and police noticed a marked drop in crime caused by people taking previously named 'legal highs', which have since been made illegal and are also known as psychoactive substance.

Sgt Kimmins today (Monday) has left his Taunton town centre role, which he took up in November 2013, to take over the Hinkley Point policing team.

He said that the 'legal high' problem was "bad for a while", adding: "I will leave knowing that the single piece of work of getting the shop closed down with the co-operation of partner agencies and help from the public and press made such a difference to the town and this is something I am most proud of for my small team.

"Unfortunately we are starting to see an apparent increase in 'legal highs' again on the streets that are now being obtained over the internet and being sold privately and this is a very worrying trend."

Sgt Kimmins urged anyone with any information about anyone selling psychoactive substances to call police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.

Referring to his time in Taunton, he said: "I have learnt a great deal, achieved some success, but recognise there is still more that needs to be done.

"With less police, we will need the support of our partners and the public more than ever if we are to continue making a difference for our local community."