NEIGHBOURS helped police in catching a drug dealer who was arrested at a children's play park in Southampton.

The dealer was arrested with narcotics found hidden in his shoe after residents in the area reported suspicious activity at the park.

Now Ahmed Zelgay has been jailed for 32 months after being found with more than £1,000 worth of crack cocaine and heroine.

Southampton Crown Court heard how police were called by concerned members of the community after reports of drug dealing at Sandhurst Road playpark in Southampton.

Neighbourhood officers were sent to the scene where they discovered Zelgay and began questioning him.

The court heard how after searching him the officers discovered one wrap of crack cocaine hidden in the bottome of his shoe and Zelgay was arrested on suspicion of possession of a class A drug.

The 24-year-old, of Morris Road, the Polygon, was then transported in a marked police car to custody.

But during the journey officers discovered a large wrap containing 42 smaller deals of crack cocaine and heroine in the foot well where Zelgay was sitting.

Officers had checked the car before entering and told the court there had been no sign of the drugs before Zelgay entered.

They said that the large wrap had an estimated street value of more than £1,000.

Zelgay was then arrested on a second charge of for possession with intent to supply a class A drugs.

Appearing at court, Zelgay pleaded guilty to both possessing and intending to supply class A drugs.

He has now been jailed for two years and eight months following the hearing.

Detective Constable Andy Spooner said: “Our message to criminals coming here to deal drugs is that you’re not welcome.

"If you suspect anyone of drug dealing in your area or see anyone acting suspiciously, report it via 101.”