AN on-the-run drug dealer who was being hunted by police after failing to attend a court hearing has been arrested.

Paul Baveridge, from Newton Aycliffe, was one of three men convicted of being part of a cocaine deal worth £58,000.

However, Baveridge failed to appear at his hearing at Teesside Crown Court in August and Durham Police issued a warrant for his arrest.

Yesterday afternoon, September 17, police confirmed that Baveridge was spotted in Wales where he was arrested.

A spokesperson from Durham Constabulary said: "A man who was wanted by police after failing to attend court where he was on trial for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs has been arrested.

"Paul Baveridge was detained by officers in Wales yesterday afternoon.

"We’d like to thank members of the public for sharing our appeal to trace Mr Baveridge."