THE wife of the criminal mastermind behind the drugs gang The Firm has been charged with money laundering.

Catherine Glover, 39, is one of four people who have been charged in connection with an alleged money laundering operation following an investigation by the National Crime Squad.

Mrs Glover, of Wycoller Avenue, Burnley, is married to Matthew Glover, who was jailed in March 2002 for 25 years after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply ecstasy, amphetemine and cannabis. During the trial, the court heard Glover and right-hand-man Anthony Lockwood were responsible for organising drugs deals worth hundreds of thousands of pounds in Lancashire, Manchester and West Yorkshire.

They were arrested following a 17-month Operation, codenamed Norfolk, led by the National Crime Squad.

Matthew Glover's sister, Rosalind Glover, 44, of Keighley, and brother Steven Glover, 45, of Leamington Avenue, Burnley, have also been charged with money laundering along with Thelma Johnston, 40, of Leamington Avenue.

All four have been bailed to appear before magistrates in Preston next Wednesday.

Three solicitors and a legal representative who were also arrested last June as part of the same inquiry have again had their bail extended until March 30.

Three other men, who were among 12 suspects arrested by National Crime Squad officers last year have also had their bail extended until March 16.

Legal practices in Blackburn, Earby and Clitheroe were also targeted by police.

Homes in Barnoldswick, Clitheroe, Padiham and Colne searched.

Burnley car dealer Christopher Dean Spokes, 36, of Brennand Street, was arrested last year in Malaga, Spain.

He was charged with money laundering offences as part of the inquiry.

He appeared before Preston Crown Court last week and was bailed to appear for a plea and directions hearing on June 18.