A LONG-standing heroin addict unknowingly put undercover police in contact with a supplier, a court heard.

Francis Devine mistook one of two officers for an addict and thought he was helping a fellow user get his hands on drugs.

Preston Crown Court heard he was arrested as part of a police operation called Nimrod, targeting drugs offences in Lancashire.

Devine, 31, of Chester Close, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to two offences of being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and also diamorphine, otherwise known as heroin. He was jailed for 18 months.

Louise Whaites, prosecuting, said two undercover officers were deployed in the Audley Range area of Blackburn. While waiting in Ripon Street they approached the defendant and had a conversation with him.

Later they came into contact with someone who supplied drugs, two bags costing £30. When analysed they were found to be diamorphine and crack cocaine.

Devine was arrested. He was identified by police, their initial meeting having been caught on video.

John O'Shea, defending, said it was not a case of Devine approaching police. The officers had approached two others who directed them to Devine.

He was a heroin addict and on his way to buy drugs when he came across the police.

"He mistook one of the officers for another addict. He thought he was helping fellow addicts".