Seven people were arrested in morning raids by police launching a new, six-month campaign to disrupt drug dealers. Operation Odin saw 50 officers raid 10 homes across the borough yesterday, including in New Malden, Tolworth and on the Cambridge Road estate.

Detective Chief Inspector Claire Moxon, head of Kingston CID, said Kingston was a big market for dealers from outside the borough. Drug-dealing is the main driver behind much anti-social behaviour, violence and criminal damage, she added.

A 26-year-old man has been arrested by police investigating a homophobic assault in Surbiton on Halloween.

The man was arrested today on suspicion of common assault and inflicting grievous bodily harm. He remains at a west London police station, the Metropolitan Police said. The force said it was still looking for a second man.