DRUGS, cash and a hammer were seized after police stopped a car.

Officers from Colchester's Town Centre Team were on patrol on Wednesday when they pulled over a vehicle in Lexden Road.

After noticing a strong smell of cannabis they conducted a search and uncovered wraps which they believed to be class A drugs, the money and a hammer.

A 54-year-old woman from Walton was arrested on suspicion of drug-driving, being concerned in supplying drugs, possession with intent to supply drugs and possession of an offensive weapon.

A 23-year-old man from Islington was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in supplying drugs, possession with intent to supply drugs, possession of drugs and possession of an offensive weapon.

And a 22-year-old man of no fixed address was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in supplying drugs.

They have been released on bail until April 9.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "The patrols were part of Operation Sceptre, our ongoing work to identify anyone who is intent on committing violent crime, particularly knife crime.

"Information from the community is vital to help us identify and deal with offenders, but also to identify and support vulnerable people who may be exploited by criminals.

"Contact us on 101 or report online at essex.police.uk

"Alternatively, call the Crimestoppers charity 100 anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org

"Always call 999 in an emergency.

"To find out more about Operation Sceptre and how we are working with the community to tackle knife crime at essex.police.uk/opsceptre."