Selby residents were praised by the town's police chief today for their invaluable help and courage in "shopping" drug dealers.

The vote of thanks came after heroin dealer Andrew Reader, 30, of Bridge Court, Barlby, was sentenced at York Crown Court to three-and-a-half years behind bars.

A member of the public who was a key witness in the case was commended by Judge Arthur Myerson, who ruled that the person could not be identified.

Acting Superintendent Brian Outhwaite said today that Reader's conviction was secured solely on good information from the public, and the support of people in the neighbourhood where he was dealing.

Mr Outhwaite said: "If we don't get information, we can't do a lot. We're now getting a lot of people phoning and writing in with reliable information.

"They used to try to protect their own, but there has been a big turn-around and people are saying they have had enough."

Reader, who admitted supplying heroin, is the third Selby heroin dealer this year to receive a hefty prison sentence.

Earlier this year, John Hurd, of Barlby Road, was given five years, and David Wilson, of Raincliffe Street, was imprisoned for eight years.

Detective Sergeant Steve Taylor said today they were very pleased with the latest "result." It sent out a clear warning to other people in Selby that if they were caught peddling drugs, they would be looking at a significant prison sentence.

Four Selby police officers - PCs Rod Bloxham, Lloyd Barrett, Deborah Tye and Adam Heatlie - who made up the observation team, were also commended by Judge Myerson.

Mr Outhwaite told the Evening Press: "I'm very pleased for this team. They showed a lot of cunning and initiative to trick their way into a block of flats which were extremely well guarded.

"They had a warrant but couldn't get through the front door because it was so well barred and bolted."

Reader's solicitor Keith Haggerty, of Parker March in Selby, said later that once addicted, his client had been unable to overcome the physical effects of withdrawal, and faced the desperate problem of having to continue obtaining the drug.

He said: "To do this, he sold small amounts to others who were also addicted, but he did not amass any financial profits.

"He is now, thankfully, clear of the drug, which he considers to be evil, and intends to remain clear.

"If any benefit at all is to be gained from this sad episode, I'm sure it's Mr Reader's hope that others will learn from his misfortune and not become involved with drugs in the first place."

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