A DRUGS courier found in possession of cocaine and ecstasy as he drove through Cumbria has told a jail sentence is "almost inevitable".

Haji Akbar, 32, stashed a vast amount of the class A drugs in his vehicle having agreed to transport them for a dealer.

However, his plan unravelled when he was stopped by police, on the M6 near Calthwaite on April 23. The illegal substances were discovered hidden in the engine compartment.

Almost 1,000 ecstasy tablets and more than half a kilogram of cocaine were recovered with an estimated street value of almost £28,000.

Akbar appeared at Carlisle Crown Court today where he pleaded guilty to possessing the drugs with intent to supply.

The case was adjourned by Recorder John Corless, who asked for a background report on Akbar., ahead of sentencing on November 5.

"I should say it is really almost inevitable you will receive a custodial sentence," said Recorder Corless.

In the meantime, Akbar was remanded on unconditional bail.

The court heard that he had pleaded guilty on the basis that he was acting as a courier.

A cannabis habit spanning several years led him to run up a £300 drugs debt to a dealer he was not able pay back.

Rachel Cooper, defending, said the dealer had vowed to reveal the debt to the mother of Akbar, who did not wish her to be told.

Instead, Akbar agreed to transport the drugs to Scotland in a car he borrowed from his brother.

"He was told to store them somewhere safe, and put them in the engine," said Miss Cooper.

"He didn't know how much there was or what they were worth. He has never been involved in drug dealing."

The court heard Akbar of Arundel Street, Rochdale, was a man of previous good character.