Detectives from Northumbria Police have described the seizure as a "significant blow" to dealers' hopes of a new year drugs windfall.

The seizure had an estimated street value of about £44,000.

Police raided a house in Gateshead on Sunday after receiving a tip-off.

'Potential harm'

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: "This is a significant recovery and we are sure the ecstasy and Viagra were destined for New Year's Eve parties at clubs in and around Newcastle.

"Viagra tablets are known as `diamonds' and its supply without a prescription remains illegal.

"We believe that often these two drugs are sold together and people must heed the warnings of the potential harm of mixing such drugs."

Public help

A significant sum of cash was also seized, along with thousands of pounds of contraband tobacco.

The spokesman added: "It is a sign of the times and a testament to local community policing that this quality information was provided to the police from members of the local community concerned about drug use."

A 22-year-old woman was arrested and is being questioned by police.