AN Ellesmere Port man jailed earlier this year for being involved drugs supply has been ordered cough up £35,000.

Daniel Taylor, 32, was arrested on 8 February 2017 when officers conducted a drugs warrant at his Earls Gardens address in Ellesmere Port.

Officers recovered a quantity of expensive hydroponics equipment including lighting and tents which were used for the production of cannabis.

Officers also discovered £3,723 in cash, which was seized under the proceeds of crime act.

He pleaded guilty to the charge of being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs and was sentenced to 18 months in prison and ordered to pay £140 at Chester Crown Court on April 20.

Following sentencing officers completed a detailed investigation into Taylor’s finances and discovered that he had benefited from a large sum of cash - he had no legitimate form of earnings.

Cheshire Police determined that Taylor was in possession of the money as a result of his criminal lifestyle.

On Friday, October 6 Taylor reappeared at Chester Crown Court where Judge Thompson confiscated £35,000 from his savings accounts.

Detective inspector Chris Williams said: “The outcome of this case sends a strong message to drug dealers that they not only run the risk of losing their liberty, but also their ill-gotten gains.

“Information from the public is vital, and I urge anyone with any information about suspected drug related activity in their local community to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101, information can also be reported anonymously, via Crimstoppers, on 0800 555 111.