A heroin dealer from London has been jailed for five years after he was caught trying to supply drugs to users in Tunbridge Wells.

Julian Mason was seen acting suspiciously in a car in Reynolds Lane in February and when police blocked his vehicle, tried to escape on foot.

The 34-year-old was detained and searched and a total of 76 wraps containing Class A drugs were found in one of his trouser pockets and inside a bag he was carrying.

Further enquiries revealed Mason had been living for several weeks at an address in Broomhill Road in the town. When officers searched this property they discovered more drugs, along with a set of scales and cling film.

In total police seized 32 grams of heroin, crack cocaine weighing 56 grams and 295 ecstasy pills.

Mason, formerly of Romney Road, Hayes, was remanded in custody after being charged with possession with intent to supply heroin, possession with intent to supply crack cocaine and possession with intent to supply MDMA.

Appearing before Maidstone Crown Court he pleaded guilty to all the charges and on Thursday was jailed for five years. Kent Police will now also seek to use powers under the Proceeds of Crime Act to seize back any criminal gains Mason may have benefited from.

Tunbridge Wells Ch Insp Dave Pate said: "Mason was dealing on a very significant level. He had even found himself a place to live in the local area in order to systematically target some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

"We know there will be more drug dealers like Mason who will try to target Tunbridge Wells but rest assured my officers will continue to work relentlessly, to ensure we keep on catching them and bringing them before the courts. We must all remain vigilant to ensure our town remains a safe place to live and your help remains invaluable."

To report anything suspicious, call 101, or 999 if a a crime is in progress.