A MAN who acted as "warehouseman" for a consignment of drugs worth thousands of pounds has been jailed for four years.

More than 1,000 ecstasy pills, 1,500 diazepam tablets, and 32oz of cannabis resin were discovered in a briefcase at David Jones' Rossendale address.

Preston Crown Court was told that he agreed to 'mind' the substances after coming under strong pressure from two other people.

Jones, 54, of Spring Side, Cowpe, Rossendale, had pleaded guilty to three charges of possessing drugs with intent to supply.

Tim Brenand, prosecuting, told how Lancashire police searched the address in June, following the defendant's arrest in Scotland. During police questioning he explained he had been looking after the drugs for someone else.

He also said: "I was in fear for my life and I had no other option but to do it, that was made clear to me."

Jones had no previous convictions.

Defence barrister Kevin Talbot said: "He felt both scared and intimidated."

Sentencing Jones, Judge Andrew Gilbart QC told him: "I accept you will have been subjected to very considerable pressure from those organising this criminal enterprise, but you were playing your part and an important part."