A VETERAN drug dealer, who was on a prison work placement when he helped mastermind a fresh cocaine operation, "richly deserved" his eight-year sentence, top judges have ruled.

Martin Matthew Robert, 43, was already serving a 15-year sentence for conspiracy to supply cocaine when he began orchestrating another drugs supply plot.

While on day-release from Prescoed prison, in Usk, he regularly visited a contact near Port Talbot.

His compatriot was "responsible for distributing cocaine in the South Wales area", Mr Justice Coulson told London's Criminal Appeal Court.

Robert clearly had "well established contacts with the ability to organise the distribution of cocaine", the judge added.

The initial offence, which earned him the 15-year sentence, involved him "benefiting" to the tune of £2 million, the court heard.

In May, Robert was handed another eight-year jail term after again admitting conspiracy to supply cocaine.

On appeal, he challenged his latest punishment, claiming it was far too tough.

Throwing out his complaints, however, Mr Justice Coulson, sitting with Sir John Royce, said: "The fact this operation was run by Robert from prison - particularly during his work placement - was a gravely aggravating factor".