TWO men from Manchester have been jailed for bringing class A drugs into Cumbria after being found by police dogs.

On December 7 officers carried out a stop and search on a car in the Kendal area.

When police approached the occupants, Billy Johnson and Stephen Ayrey, attempted to drive off, colliding with the police car and other parked cars, and narrowly missing officers and a cyclist.

The vehicle was followed and found in Gillingate, Kendal.

A drugs police dog searched the area. Johnson and Ayrey were located and Class A drugs were found hidden in a wall.

Johnson, 27, from Reginald Street, Manchester, was sentenced to three years nine months for the possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, driving dangerously and handling stolen goods.

Ayrey, 26, from The Gardens, Manchester, was sentenced to three years four months for the possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and handling stolen goods.

Police constable Christopher Appleyard said: “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message to those considering becoming involved in county line drug dealing; Kendal is not a soft touch, we will catch you, you will go to jail.

“We will continue to proactively target county lines drugs networks and take action against those suspected of bringing drugs into Cumbria.

“We would urge anyone with information on drug supply to contact us on 101.”

Alternatively, the public can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, to report a crime anonymously, on 0800 555 111.