STAFF at a school found a stash of cocaine and saw a would-be "drug dealer" return to the spot where the haul was hidden, a jury heard.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Imran Hussain, 23, was seen frantically searching outside Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School, Blackburn, where 14 wraps of cocaine worth almost £300 were discovered.

It was alleged that he walked off when he saw a police car and that on his arrest he had two mobile telephones and cash on him.

Hussain, a former university student, who had dropped out the year before because of personal problems, is accused of possessing the drugs with intent to supply, last June.

The defendant, of Wimberley Gardens, Blackburn, denies the allegation and claims he was then depressed, had gone to the area to pick up cocaine left by his dealer and was going to have some fun.

Hussain, who has no criminal convictions, told the court that when he left his BSc honours biology course about 15 months ago he was taking cocaine and cannabis.

Questioned by his counsel, Martin Hackett, the defendant said he had met his usual dealer in Blackburn and thought he would "spend a bit of money and have a good time."

(Proceeding)