Former WBO heavyweight champion Herbie Hide in court over cocaine sting

Former champ was caught by an undercover journalist

Former WBO heavyweight champion Herbie Hide has appeared in court over drugs offences (PA)

A former boxing world champion has appeared in court accused of conspiring to supply cocaine.

Herbie Hide, 41, was caught in a sting operation by The Sun newspaper.

The prosecution alleges that he and another man, Ben Sharman, agreed to supply £400 worth of cocaine to an undercover journalist between January 29 and February 2.

The two-time WBO heavyweight champion appeared at Norwich Crown Court today wearing a grey tracksuit but did not enter a plea.

Sharman, 22, of Howe Lane, Poringland, near Norwich, has also been charged with conspiracy to supply the Class A drug.

His barrister, Claire Matthews, requested more time for her client to consider his case, which was adjourned until July 11.

Hide was released on unconditional bail, while Sharman was remanded in custody.