A MAN found with three bags of cannabis, weighing scales and snap bags in his house claimed he had started buying in bulk because of lockdown.

Blackburn magistrates heard Saeem Bhayat had been charged with simple possession of the drug because there was no evidence to link him to supply.

Bhayat, 26, of Woodlea Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis. He was fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 costs and £34 victim surcharge.

Scott Parker, prosecuting, said police approached a parked car at 11.40pm and could immediately smell cannabis. Bhayat, who was in the passenger seat, produced a single snap bag of cannabis.

A search of his home revealed three large bags of cannabis, a number of clear snap bags and weighing scales.

Damien Pickup, defending, said his client had no previous convictions. He said Bhayat used to buy small quantities of cannabis, use it and then buy more.

"Because of lock-down he changed to buying larger quantities," said Mr Pickup.

"He bought the scales and snap bags so he could weigh out what he was using. He only ever took one bag out with him."