A DRUG dealer from Widnes has been jailed after he was found in the streets with cocaine and heroin.

Paul Lightfoot, of Bell House Lane, was sentenced to four years and nine months in prison at Chester Crown Court on Friday, December 7.

The 50-year-old was found guilty of two counts of possession with intent to supply class A drugs, following a three-day trial.

At around 4pm on June 17, Lightfoot was walking on Page Lane in Widnes when he was stopped by a local PCSO, who had reasons to suspect that he may be involved in drug dealing.

Lightfoot voluntarily emptied his pockets but the PCSO called for back-up after he produced a penknife.

When he was struggling, a wrap of white powder fell out of Lightfoot's pocket.

Police officers swiftly attended the scene and Lightfoot was arrested on suspicion of possession of controlled drugs.

When searched, officers discovered 29 wraps of cocaine and nine wraps of heroin.

A small quantity of cannabis was also discovered during a search at Lightfoot’s home.

Following his conviction Detective Sergeant Roberts from Widnes Local Policing Unit said: “Illegal drugs and the sale and use of such drugs has a detrimental impact on our communities and removing those involved in drug dealing from them is of paramount importance to the team here at Widnes.

“Officers on patrol are always briefed with intelligence from the community and as demonstrated here will use stop checks and search powers to pursue those involved and protect those affected.

“The sentence handed to Lightfoot sends out a clear message to other potential criminals that the use and supply of illegal drugs will not be tolerated in Widnes or elsewhere in Cheshire.”

Anyone concerned about drug dealing in their community is urged contact Cheshire Police on 101 or online.

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

If you are suffering from addiction, seek help at CGL or via the NHS.