ADDICT USED INTERNET TO LEARN HOW TO GROW CANNABIS

A cannabis addict caught with 20 plants in his home used the internet
to learn how to grow the drug.

Self-confessed addict Trevor Walker, 31, appeared before Durham Crown
Court after he was found growing the plants in a specially adapted
room at his home.

Prosecutor Lesley Kirkup told the court police raided Walker's home in
Wheatley Hill and found cannabis growing in a bedroom.

Ms Kirkup added: "Around 20 plants had just been harvested and the
yield put in baskets.

"There were other plants growing in pots and police found fertiliser
downstairs. The bedroom wall was lined with foil and there was a
watering system, lamps and timers. There was also some ducting which
had yet to be installed."

Police interviewed Walker who said he used the internet to find out
how to grow cannabis.

Walker, of Luke Terrace, admitted being concerned in the production of
a class C drug between January and June last year. He had no previous
convictions.

Barry Robson, mitigating, said: "This is a man who allowed his
premises to be used to grow the drug in exchange for a supply for himself.

"He has been used to an extent by others, and he knows he must come
off cannabis if he is to become a useful member of society again.

"Help is what he needs, and if he receives the right type, I don't
anticipate the courts will see him again."

Judge Bowers sentenced Walker to six months in prison, suspended for
12 months and a 12-month supervision order.

"I have some experience of mental health," said the judge. "You have
deep-seated problems for which you need help.

"You now have 12 months to sort your life out."

The judge ordered the cannabis found in Walker's home to be
confiscated and destroyed.