A FORMER British wrestling champion has been jailed for two and a half years for drug dealing after police found cocaine in a safe next to his bed.

Bolton Crown Court heard how 22-year-old Wade Barrick was in bed on December 10 last year when police staged an early morning raid at his home in Hardman Street, Farnworth.

Barrick directed them to a floor safe next to the bed where they found a total of 30g of cocaine, plus £660.

Neil Nehra, prosecuting, said a mobile phone was also recovered which contained several texts, including the message, "Any chance you can drop me one off at the post office?"

Barrick pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine with intent to supply and possession of criminal property.

Nicholas Ross, defending, pleaded for Barrick, whom he described as an "exceptional young man", to escape jail. He claimed the defendant's own occasional drug use had spiralled out of control and he had been dealing cocaine to friends and associates for six weeks after coming under pressure from his own dealers to repay debts.

"For a matter of weeks in October and September last year he was foolish, naive and did not apply proper thought to what he was doing," he said.

He added that Barrick, who works as a scaffolder in his father's firm, has enjoyed success as an amateur wrestler, winning the under-19 British championships and coming fourth in the European championships three years ago.

Barrick hopes to continue in the sport, he said.

"He is impressive and exceptional, which ultimately may mean he is not a lost cause," said Mr Ross.

Recorder Stuart Driver QC said he accepted the "glowing praise" about Barrick which had been put forward by character witnesses.

"However, the crime you committed was so serious only an immediate term of imprisonment can be justified," he stressed.