A FORMER RAF man has been jailed for more than four years for dealing heroin and crack cocaine in Swindon.

Appearing before the crown court via prison video link, Sean Drayton thanked the judge as he received his sentence of four years and four months.

The 46-year-old, formerly of Penhill Drive, pleaded guilty to four counts of supplying crack cocaine and heroin and three counts of possession with intent to supply the class A drugs.

Addict Drayton was one of dozens of runners picked up in a massive undercover police operation, Op Jetway, that has seen officers pose as addicts in an attempt to catch unwitting County Lines drug dealers.

On September 18 he sold four deals for £30 including crack cocaine at 84 per cent purity. A week later, on September 24, he sold two larger wraps for £75.

Police raided the home of Drayton’s girlfriend on October 7. They uncovered heroin with a street value of between £2,800 and £4,000 and cocaine worth up to £1,400.

Rob Ross, defending, said his client had previously held down good jobs in the RAF and at Honda.

Drayton was a very talented artist – so much so that Mr Ross said he had himself collected paintings and drawings done by his client.

Mr Ross said: “He is someone who could make a lot more of his life if he could kick once and for all the scourge of class A drugs.”

Labelling his record of 39 convictions for 109 offences appalling, Judge Jason Taylor QC acknowledged Drayton was someone with talent.

“I can only hope when you complete the sentence I am about to impose you can turn your life around,” he said.

Drayton’s previous convictions, which included drugs charges, and the fact he had been on licence when he committed the latest offences were held to be aggravating features in the case.

Drugs squad chief Det Insp Paul Franklin welcomed the sentence: "It sends a strong message to the organised gangs who control County Lines that you are not welcome in Wiltshire."