TWO men who were responsible for peddling cocaine and heroin across Widnes have been jailed.

One of the drug dealers even brandished a knife at officers upon his arrest.

A police investigation began when detectives from Operation Apollo identified Joseph Eccleston and Callum Taylor had been running the ‘Amos’ County Line.

Intelligence led officers to identified Eccleston, of Peel House Lane, and Taylor, of HMP Altcourse, as key members of the county line, orchestrating the team’s supply of class A drugs into the town.

During a warrant at his home address on April 25 last year, Eccleston approached police while brandishing a kitchen knife but was quickly brought under control by officers using captor spray.

Taylor was also located in the property, and the pair were both detained and arrested.

Following a search of the property, officers recovered a quantity of cocaine and heroin and other drug paraphernalia.

Eccleston, 36, was found in possession of a quantity of cash and a knuckleduster which was concealed in his waistband.

Taylor, 25, was found in possession of a large quantity of cash.

Both men were subsequently charged with two counts of possession with intent to supply class A drugs (diamorphine, cocaine).

Eccleston was also charged with possession of offensive weapon in a private place and affray.

The duo appeared before Liverpool Crown Court on Monday.

Eccleston received three years and six months in prison, while Taylor received four years and four months.

Detective inspector Robert Balfour said: “Our dedicated team of officers continue to work tirelessly to disrupt county lines and target individuals like Eccleston and Taylor, both of whom were heavily involved in the sale of illegal drugs.

“This is a fantastic result, and it truly shows the value of information from the local community and our commitment in pursuing those responsible for county lines drug dealing, and I am glad that we have prevented these drugs from reaching the streets of Widnes.

“As this case demonstrates, information from the local community is vital and if you have any information about illegal drug activity or any other criminal activity taking place then please report it to us on 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and we will take action.”