A MAN believed to have been transporting drugs into Northwich has been jailed after police found him in possession of almost £1,500 worth of crack cocaine.

Andrew Shields was jailed for 28 months for possession with intent to supply class A drugs after appearing at Chester Crown Court on November 5.

Shields, of Camelot Way, Runcorn, was arrested on Wednesday, October 6 after officers on patrol in the Old Town stopped a red Kia Sportage on Main Road.

The stop check was made following intelligence from officers in Northwich that the car was being used to transport drugs.

The 29-year-old, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was taken into custody and searched, where he was found to be in possession of 148 wraps of crack cocaine, valued at £1480.

Following the sentencing detective constable Claire Heatley, of the Western Proactive Team, said: "This is a great result and the case shows the importance of the police’s power to stop and search people they suspect to be breaking the law.

"As a result of the intelligence and our ability to stop and search Shields, a drug dealer is now behind bars and a large quantity of illegal drugs have been seized, most of which were likely to be destined for the streets of Northwich.

"Illegal drugs have a hugely detrimental impact and we are committed to doing all we can to remove those involved in the supply of such drugs from our communities.

"Information from the public is vital for this fight and I urge anyone with any information about suspected drug related activity in their community to get in touch.

"You will be listened to and we will investigate the matter."

You can report suspected drug dealing to Cheshire Constabulary directly by calling 101 or giving the details online via cheshire.police.uk/ro/report.

Alternatively, information can also be given anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.