POLICE officers who spearheaded a drugs raid in Middlewich say the conviction of a man arrested during Operation Moorhen sends out a strong message to drug users.

The comments come after Stephen Duffy appeared at Crewe Magistrates' Court yesterday, Tuesday.

Police raided Duffy's home in November and discovered bags containing cocaine and drugs paraphernalia.

Duffy, 22, of Kitfield Avenue, admitted possession when he appeared in court in November where some kind of community order was considered.

But yesterday, Tuesday, magistrates ordered him to carry out a 12-month drug treatment testing order in a bid to stop his offending.

Nicola Roberts, prosecuting, said a warrant had been executed at the defendant's home on November 19.

Duffy was in his front bedroom where a quantity of small bags containing white powder was discovered along with paraphernalia including silver foil.

Ms Roberts said: "PC Newton asked him what it was and he said 'rock'.

"It was taken away to forensics and tests revealed it was 471mg of cocaine.

"He was interviewed and admitted it was for his own personal use."

Stuart Flood, defending, said he was a young man who for the past eight years had had a problem with drugs.

He had lost his girlfriend of six years through his problems.

Mr Flood said: "It has been of great concern to his family.

"His mother is very concerned about his ability to carry out this order. This young man now has an opportunity and I hope he grabs it with both hands.

"Whether he grabs it is down to Stephen Duffy - not to his mother or his father."

Dr Barry Godfrey, chairman of the magistrates, added: "It is your best chance to stop the offending."

Magistrates also ordered Duffy to pay £20 court costs and ordered the destruction of the drugs and paraphernalia.

PC Amy Fletcher, who carried out the operation as CAT officer for Middlewich, said: "Obviously any court conviction is a positive result. This is mainly down to intelligence supplied by residents and sends out a very strong and clear message that Middlewich people living in Middlewich are not prepared to accept drug use and dealing."

PC Alison Wright, who also took part in the raids, added: "As a CAT team we are continuing to look into drug problems in Middlewich and are more than happy to speak with anyone who has information."