A Tunbridge Wells man stopped on suspicion of driving offences has been jailed after police discovered he was also dealing drugs.

Jamie Bamblett, 30, was at the wheel of a silver Jaguar in November 2015 when he was recognised by a patrol as someone who had previously been stopped for having no driver’s licence or insurance.

After failing to stop at the officers' request, as he drove away from his home in North Farm Road, a police chase ensued. He was arrested after finally stopping in Brook Road.

A search of his home found 605g of cannabis. Almost half of it was discovered kept in a microwave oven, along with around 3g of cocaine. Mobile phones containing messages about drug deals were also seized, along with £320 in cash.

Appearing at Maidstone Crown Court, Bamblett pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis with intent to supply and possessing a Class A drug – cocaine. He also admitted charges relating to separate incidents of shoplifting, assault and escaping from lawful custody, after running away from police officers following an arrest for theft in March this year.

Last Thursday Bamblett was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment. He was also disqualified from driving for almost three years.

Tunbridge Wells Ch Insp Dave Pate said: "Bamblett was involved in the supply of significant quantities of drugs, but on this occasion was prevented from doing so thanks largely to the quick thinking of local officers on patrol.

"The continued presence of both uniformed and plain clothes police throughout this town remains key to tackling drugs and I would like to assure residents there will be no let-up in our commitment to deter and arrest criminals involved with the supply of any illegal substances.

"As ever, we continue to need your help. Contact the police if you see anything suspicious on 101. If there is crime in progress call 999."