A DRUG dealer stood outside a Bournemouth youth centre to sell drugs, police say.

Officers called to reports of drug-related activity in Old Christchurch Lane mounted extra patrols to reassure residents and visitors.

Last month, the PCs, who serve with Bournemouth South Neighbourhood Policing Team, arrested a man on suspicion of supplying a class A drug in an alleyway close to the Fusion Youth Centre.

A spokesperson from the team said: "As a result of reports of drug related activity and anti-social behaviour in Old Christchurch Lane police increased their patrols in the area.

"At 3pm on the afternoon of Wednesday, December 20 a male was arrested outside Fusion Youth Centre for possession with intent to supply of a controlled substance."

The youth club, a town centre coffee bar, is open to teenagers aged 14 to 17.

The venue features a pool table and video games. Youth workers attend to speak with visitors about personal development and volunteering opportunities.

There is also a music basement equipped for individual and group practice, recordings and performances.

Kelly Ansell, Bournemouth council's head of housing and community enforcement, said: “We are aware of a number of incidents of anti-social behaviour that have taken place recently on Old Christchurch Lane.

"Although Bournemouth council does not own the Fusion Youth Centre, we are working and engaging with the owners to offer advice and support to address these issues.”

A 45-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of possessing class A drugs with intent to supply in connection with the investigation.

He has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.