A MAN searched after being detained by police was found to be carrying 12 boxes of diazepam containing more than 350 tablets.

Blackburn magistrates heard Anthony John Horrocks admitted buying the drugs off the internet.

And Nick Dearing, defending, said it came as a surprise to his client to be appearing in court for possession of a restricted drug.

"He had been able to buy them quite cheaply and freely over the internet," said Mr Dearing.

"There was no restriction on his purchase."

Horrocks, 44, of Stockbridge Road, Padiham, pleaded guilty to possessing diazepam, a controlled drug.

He was fined £40 with £85 costs and £30 victim surcharge.

Tracy Yates, prosecuting, said police were alerted by a member of the public who had seen a man looking into house windows on Stockbridge Road.

He was stopped and searched and the tablets discovered.

"Initially he said he had been prescribed them but then admitted he had bought 800 tablets off the internet," said Mrs Yates.