A Northwich teenager was caught dealing drugs by a police officer picking up his lunch.

PC Robert Tandy was visiting a shop in Kingsmead in June last year to pick up his lunch when he apprehended Harry Hewitson.

Whilst in the store, PC Tandy was approached by a member of the public who reported possible suspicious activity nearby.

The officer left the store and walked towards the group to see what was happening.

As he did so, Harry Hewitson, of Lime Avenue, attempted to run away, but was located nearby after a short pursuit.

The 18-year-old was found in possession of a quantity of cannabis and two mobile phones.

Cheshire officers also recovered a quantity of cocaine which he had thrown into a nearby garden when he was attempting to flee.

Hewitson was arrested at the scene on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

Following his arrest, a search was executed at his home where officers recovered further drugs paraphernalia.

Hewitson was subsequently charged with possession with intent to supply class A drugs and possession of a Class B drug.

The 18-year-old pleaded guilty to both offences and on appearing at Chester Crown Court on Friday, April 23.

He was sentenced to 22 months in prison and ordered to pay £261 in fines and costs.

Following his sentencing, Sergeant David Christmas said: “This case is a true example of how information from the public is vital in the fight against crime.

“Thanks to the information provided by the witness in this case an 18-year-old man is now behind bars and a quantity of class A drugs has been removed from the streets of Northwich.”

Chief Inspector Gary Smith, head of Northwich Local Policing Unit, added: “Illegal drugs have a hugely detrimental impact and the team here at Northwich are committed to doing all we can to remove those involved in the supply of such drugs from our communities.

“As this case shows, information from the public can make a real difference in 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 https://www.cheshire.police.uk/ro/report