Police uncovered a fly-ridden den of squalor during a drugs raid in Brighton yesterday, as our picture shows.

Every room was littered with syringes, filth and rubbish, and hundreds of flies buzzed round officers' heads.

Two men were arrested on suspicion of drugs offences.

Our reporter followed police as they raided what is otherwise a clean, well- maintained block of flats.

Officers in stab-proof vests and carrying riot shields forced their way through the front door - and some gagged at the stench.

The flat was ankle-deep in rubbish - rotting food, empty cans, dirty clothing and mounds of cigarette butts.

The police team's shoes squelched in places as they made their way round the one-bedroom flat, once a desirable home.

One man was arrested on suspicion of a drugs offence. Another was arrested later at the flat, also on suspicion of a drugs offence.

A motorist was arrested outside the address on suspicion of driving a stolen car.

Police, sweating in their protective gear, made an extensive search of the flat.

Inspector Rob Carden, Brighton police north sector commander, led yesterday's raid.

He said: "I have to say these were the worst conditions I have come across, and I previously worked in Merseyside.

"In my view, it was a health hazard not just for the occupant but also neighbours. We have informed council environmental health officials."

Along the corridor, on the door to another flat, was a notice: "Please do not ask for money for drugs, allegedly for food. There is a way you can afford food - simply detox instead.

"Do not start to follow me downstairs, shouting at me, harassing me to buy stolen objects. Please do not swear at me if I refuse to buy what you sell."

Laurence Fowler, assistant chief executive of New Downland Housing Association, which runs Saunders Park House in Hollingdean Road, said: "There have been difficulties there and we are dealing with them. We are doing everything we legally can."

Earlier this month Mr Carden led a joint council/police raid on a litter-strewn home in Natal Road, Brighton, which led to a woman's eviction.

He said: "This is a multi-agency approach backed by public support.

"We would encourage members of the public to help us in our job by supplying information and evidence of drugs offences."

He warned there would be further police operations.

Doug Wilson, secretary of the Saunders Park Residents Association, said he was pleased with yesterday's police action.