Alan Russell, 53, admitted conspiring to bring almost 10 tonnes of cannabis, worth about £16m, into the UK.

Plymouth Crown Court heard how Russell had played a crucial and well paid-role as transport manager in a drug smuggling ring.

In April 2001 customs officers stopped Russell at Plymouth Ferryport as he boarded a ferry to Santander in northern Spain.

BMW cars

He admitting having £36,000 in cash on him, but said the money was to buy an apartment and a van in Spain.

A search of his house at Green Common Lane, Westhoughton, Bolton, revealed Russell's role in the drug smuggling organisation.

Russell had used the profits of the operation - estimated at about £440,000 - to buy an impressive home, trips abroad and three BMW cars.

In sentencing, Judge Shaun Overend paid tribute to the "vigilance of the Plymouth customs officers".

Customs spokesman Bob Gaiger said they were very pleased with the outcome of the case.

'Well-respected'

"Customs continue to target not only those people who smuggle drugs but also those criminals who organise the illegal transfer of money to finance smuggling runs," he said.

"The sentence should serve as a warning to anybody who attempts to get involved in any aspect of drug smuggling."

The alleged ring-leader of the gang is still at large.