A FATHER-of-five who tried dealing drugs at Bournemouth's Opera House nightclub for "a little extra cash" has been jailed for two years.

Shaun Raymond, 35, of Borthwick Road, Bournemouth, admitted possessing 41 ecstasy tablets on March 26 this year, with intent to supply.

Prosecuting at Bournemouth Crown Court, Stephen Dent recalled how door staff at the Opera House in Boscombe had searched Raymond after spotting him acting suspiciously.

When 35 ecstasy tablets were found in his trousers' pocket Raymond told the security manager he was selling them "just for a little extra cash", added Mr Dent. "Police were called and a further tablet was found in his left sock.

"During a search at the police station another five were found in his right shoe."

Raymond told officers he had bought the tablets for £2 each and was planning to sell them on for £4.

Defending, Iain Ross said his client had immediately accepted his guilt. "It was the first time he had attempted anything like this and his first time at the Opera House selling drugs.

"He was a recreational user of that drug at the time and in debt. Being arrested and prosecuted for this serious matter has been quite an experience for him.

"He is no longer using any type of drugs.

"When he is released from prison he wants to get his life in order," added Mr Ross.

Sentencing Raymond, Mr Recorder Llewellyn Sellick said: "You know the serious view the court takes of dealing with class A drugs. Only a custodial sentence can be justified."

First published: Oct 4