A drug dealer who left a 'man bag' containing cocaine and more than £1,500 in cash in the Arndale centre toilets was caught after asking staff if anyone had handed it in.

Security workers in the shopping centre were alerted to the bag, which was found next to the wash basins in the toilets.

It was unzipped and contained a large amount of cash, Manchester Crown Court heard.

The bag was found to have £1,550 in it, as well as six snap bags of cocaine, said to be worth £50 each, as well as a set of car keys.

A few minutes later Thomas Lindop, 33, who was said to be in an 'agitated' state, went to the Arndale's information desk and asked if any bags had been handed in, and provided his details.

Prosecuting, David Lees said staff had called the police and tried to stall Lindop.

They monitored his movements on CCTV as he then went to the car park.

He was arrested shortly after when officers arrived.

In his Vauxhall Astra, police found more cash totalling £656, as well as an ounce of cannabis, said to be worth about £200.

They also found receipts for items purchased earlier that day including a £450 Gucci watch, ladies shoes costing £595, and £210 Ugg boots, which had all been bought using cash.

Prosecutors said Lindop, from Failsworth, Oldham, had been on a 'spending spree' that day, on December 19, 2017, purchasing the luxury goods and cocaine with funds generated by a cannabis farm he had cultivated at a property in Failsworth.

Police found the 'remains' of a cannabis farm at the house, including lighting equipment and plant pots.

There was also evidence of drug dealing on a mobile phone which police seized, the court heard.

Defending, Richard Dawson said Lindop was remorseful and had pleaded guilty.

He described Lindop's offending as 'low level street dealing'.

A judge spared him jail.

Recorder Jonathan Gavaghan sentenced Lindop to 12 months in prison, suspended for 18 months.

Lindop, of Densmore Street, Failsworth, must also complete 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days, and observe a curfew for five months between 6pm and 6am.

He pleaded guilty to offences of producing cannabis, possession with intent to supply cannabis, possession of criminal property, money laundering and possession of cocaine.