A MAN who tried to throw a bag of cocaine behind a bar after a police dog entered a pub he was in has been fined £300.

Shane Wintersgill admitted possessing the Class A drug when he appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court.

Prosecutor Andrea Milsom said police and a drugs dog paid a random visit to Llewellyn’s Bar in Ferryhill at about 10.45am on April 6.

She said officers saw Wintersgill, 35, of Cavendish Court in Ferryhill, pull a packet out of his pocket and throw it behind the bar.

It was found to contain cocaine, the court heard.

Mrs Milsom said Wintersgill was sentenced to four years in prison in 2004 for production of cocaine and being concerned in the supply of the drug.

In 1997 he was also jailed for numerous drugs offences including possession of MDMA with intent to supply, the court heard.

Liam Brison, in mitigation, said Wintersgill turned his life around after his time in prison and for the past eight years has been working full time as a water mains fitter.

Mr Brison said Wintersgill was an occasional recreational drug user and had bought £50 worth of cocaine to use on a night out on April 6 after arguing with his girlfriend.

He said only £20 worth of the drug was left when police arrived at the pub.

Magistrates said Wintersgill’s previous offences were too long ago to be used in the latest hearing and acknowledged he had changed.

As well as the £300 fine he was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £20 victim surcharge.

Magistrates also ordered the drugs be destroyed.