AN ex-England athlete who also served in the Armed Forces became involved in county lines drugs supply after her life spiralled.

Katie Cook, 36, twice came to the attention of police as search warrants were executed at her home in October, 2018, and February, 2019.

Both times, officers seized heroin and uncovered phone evidence revealing drugs supply involvement.

Cook later admitted two counts of being concerned in supplying the class A drug.

Of the first occasion, Cook spoke of being a heavy heroin user having become addicted to medication initially prescribed for injuries she sustained in the Army. She met “two scousers” through other users, knew they were involved in illegal supply and distribution, and provided accommodation and transport to one.

“He had been staying at her address and dealing drugs in the area, using her home address as a base - cuckooing,” prosecutor Tim Evans told Carlisle Crown Court. “She was fearful of what might happen if she did not do what was asked of her.”

Mr Evans stated: “In this operation there are significantly bigger fish than she.”

After the second raid, Cook conceded she supplied “bits of heroin” to people who also bought prescription pills from her.

Cook, of Roper Terrace, Salterbeck, hadn’t committed any offences since, had engaged with a drug recovery service and been clean for “many months now”, said Kim Whittlestone, defending.

“She was a very successful sportswoman, ran for her country and joined the Armed Forces,” said Miss Whittlestone. Cook’s 10-year service included tours to Iraq and Afghanistan before she left after becoming pregnant.

She had since been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and became addicted to medication prescribed for back pain. “Unfortunately that led her down the route of her taking illegal substances,” added the barrister.

Hearing of Cook’s positive progress and parental responsibilities, Judge Nicholas Barker suspended a two-year prison sentence and ordered her to complete rehabilitation, unpaid work and a two-month night-time curfew.

“You are, it is said, a very different person than you were when you were giving transport to drug dealers from Liverpool,” said Judge Barker.