A pensioner who attempted to smuggle 10,000 ecstasy tablets into the UK and then went on the run for 15 YEARS is beginning a 12-year prison term.

John Price, formerly of Strood, was arrested by customs officers at Dover’s Eastern Docks on June 30, 1995, after the drugs were found hidden under a metal sheet in the vehicle he was driving.

During his trial in April 1997, Price absconded and an arrest warrant was issued for his capture.

He was sentenced in his absence at Canterbury Crown Court for being knowingly concerned in the importation of MDMA (ecstasy) worth an estimated £150,000.

Bob Gaiger, HM Revenue and Customs spokesman said: “Price was on the run for 15 years, but is now finally in prison.

"Cases like this show our determination to pursue fugitives to make sure they face the consequences of the crime they commit.”

Price was arrested by Clyro Police last week in Hereford.

Canterbury Crown Court ordered he begin his 12-year jail term plus six months for failing to appear at the court for the trial in April 1997.