AN ADDICT who was growing cannabis was glad when the police caught him because he’s now changed his ways, a court heard.

Thomas Watkins, 22, realised after spending all his Christmas money on the drug that it was not doing him any good. Officers then turned up at his then home last December 29, and found five plants in a foil-lined tent, as well as some cannabis bush.

Burnley magistrates were told Watkins had since been drug-free. He has joined a gym and is looking for work. Watkins, of West View Road, Whitewell Bottom, admitted producing cannabis and possessing the drug. He was sent to an attendance centre for 21 hours and must pay £85 costs and a £60 victim surcharge.

Andrew Robinson, prosecuting, said police were called to a report of a break-in at the defendant’s then home on Crabtree Avenue, Waterfoot.

Officers found a hydroponic system in a tent where five immature plants were growing. The defendant said he had bought the equipment on eBay and purchased the cannabis in the bag separately for £195.

Sara Lyle, for Watkins, said the cannabis was for his own use. At the time of the offence, he was addicted. She said: “He tells me he was actually pleased that the police had found the equipment because he has done something about it since the plants were discovered.

“He has joined the local gym, become involved with the Jobcentre and he’s doing absolutely everything he can to find full-time, permanent employment, rather than sitting at home every day, smoking cannabis.”