A Reading drug dealer has been jailed after police discovered a large amount of crack cocaine and heroin on his person during a search.

Nigel Haines, 52, of Carsdale Close appeared in Reading Crown Court on Tuesday, July 2 where he pleaded guilty to two counts of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug, and one count of acquiring criminal property.

Following their search of Haines at around 9:20pm on May 17, officers discovered 17 wraps of crack cocaine and heroine, with a street value of £170, and around £159 in cash, alongside a mobile phone.

Thames Valley Police initially stopped Haines on Lowerfield Road after they saw him being involved in a suspected drug deal earlier that day.

Alongside the drugs in his possession, officers also searched his address and found torn pieces of paper in a kitchen bin showing records of drug transactions.

Investigating officer PC Liam Steele, based at Reading Police Station, said: “I am glad that Nigel Haines has been given a custodial sentence after pleading guilty to these offences while on bail for a similar offence 10 days previously.

“We will continue to proactively target and prosecute offenders involved in the supply of drugs.

“Our activity will be both visible and covert, aimed at disrupting and pursuing offenders”

PC Steele highlighted the importance of the public's role in investigating drug supply offences, saying that it develops intelligence during a proactive investigation.

He added: “If you have any information about the supply of drugs in your neighbourhood, please report it to us via 101 or the Thames Valley Police website.

“Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.”