Nineteen charged in undercover drugs investigation

One suspect was arrested in his dressing gown after jumping over garden fences

An undercover investigation into heroin and cocaine dealing in Manchester's Piccadilly Gardens has led to 19 people being charged.

One suspect vainly attempted to flee by jumping over garden fences in his dressing gown during dawn raids on Tuesday.

About 300 officers from Greater Manchester Police took part in the operation, which saw 22 arrests.

Hundreds of bags of drugs and £10,000 in cash were also seized.

'Conspiracy to supply'

Those charged are aged between 17 and 56 and were due to appear at Manchester Magistrates' Court.

The charges include conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine and possessing an offensive weapon.

Two men arrested were released on bail pending further enquiries.