A FORMER police officer who was jailed for protecting drug dealers has won his prison cell battle for holiday pay.

Ray Ranson, who was jailed last year, will get about £1,000.

He came to the attention of colleagues investigating drug smuggling male stripper Colin Reah, who was subsequently jailed for drug offences. A court heard how Ranson tipped off a friend following Reah's arrest, mixed with dealers, and took drugs himself.

Ranson, an officer for 18 years, was found guilty of neglecting his duty. His sentence was reduced from four to three years on appeal.

He claimed he was owed 200 hours' holiday pay and two lieu days. He said he had originally been told they could have been taken during his suspension.

He said: "Intense emotional and financial pressure has been placed on myself and my wife, compounded by Northumbria Police's reluctance to pay me what I believe I have a right to, as any other employee who chooses to resign from his job."

A spokeswoman for Northumbria Police said: "Mr Ranson's claim concerning his payment for holiday pay and lieu hours has been paid in accordance with police regulations."

Russell Watson, chairman of the Northumbria Police Federation, which represents officers, said: "It was always a matter for Northumbria Police to consider the appropriateness of Mr Ranson's request."