A drug smuggler who imported £77,000 of herbal cannabis is starting a three-and-a-half year jail sentence.

Anthony Hayes was stopped by Customs and Excise officers when he arrived at Harwich International Port from the Hook of Holland.

His van was loaded with plants he was importing as part of his business, but a search by officers found three boxes which contained the drugs.

Hayes, 29, of Wakering Avenue, Shoebury, claimed the boxes contained leaves that he would sell to flower shops, but the drugs were discovered underneath.

There were 60 packages weighing in total 29.8kgs. Tests showed it was herbal cannabis.

Hayes denied knowingly importing drugs but a jury at Chelmsford Crown Court found him guilty.

Recorder Neil Garnham QC said: "If it wasn't for people like you running the risk of bringing drugs into this country the trade would not flourish."