A MAN convicted of conspiring to flood the streets of Bolton with heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine was jailed for seven and a half years at Liverpool Crown Court today.

Carl Entwistle, aged 21, of Cromford Close, Bromley Cross, was part of a drug-dealing gang who ran a multi-million pound operation in Bolton from a town centre diner, the court was told.

He was the last member of the six-strong gang to be sentenced.

"Leader" John Barber, aged 35, of Twisse Road, Breightmet -- currently on the run with his 22-year-old pregnant girlfriend Victoria Dudson from Salford -- was sentenced to 22 years his absence.

"Directors" Lee Bonney, aged 34, of Nantwich Walk, Bolton and Alan Bentley, aged 34, of Dunoon Drive, Bolton, have been jailed for 17 years and 14 years respectively.

"Wholesalers" Brian Roper, aged 25, of Thornbank South, Deane and 38-year-old Martin Wright, of Redstock Close, Westhoughton, pleaded guilty to the charges before the start of the trial.

They were jailed for four years each.

Detective Chief Inspector Gerry Donnellan of the force Drug Unit said today: "This is the final chapter in what has been a long and complex investigation.

"It has resulted in the removal of Bolton's main drug dealers from the streets and I believe these sentences have reflected each individuals role within the organisation.

"These six men represented a major drug dealing operation, which monopolised the market in Bolton and generated millions of pounds.

"The one aspect of this case left unfinished is the location of John Barber who failed to return to court after Christmas and was sentenced to 22 years in his absence.

"Anyone who can help us find John Barber or sees him is asked to contact

Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111 or call 999."

The jury heard earlier the gang's plot was smashed by police who planted hidden microphones inside their meeting place, Debbie's diner, and recorded their conversations.

Diner owner and gang member Billy Webb was shot dead in his flat in Wigan before the trial began. Police are still hunting his killer.

Another man, Raymond Hargreaves, from Warrington, was cleared after a six week trial.