Police who forced entry to a property looking for the occupant found a cannabis farm instead.

Blackburn magistrates heard when they caught up with Jonathan Hawtrey he admitted growing the cannabis for his own use.

Hawtrey, 33, of Leopold Way, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to producing cannabis. He was fined £400 with a £160 victim surcharge and £85 costs.

Julia Draper, prosecuting, said police were searching the property on August 12, having forced entry and found a cannabis set up in the conservatory.

There were two heat lamps and an air filtration system supporting eight cannabis plants.

Daniel Frazer, mitigating, said his client had been involved in a road traffic accident some years ago.

As a result of his injuries he underwent major surgery and was awaiting a date for further surgery.

“He has been left with severe pain in his lower back and accepts he was trying to self-medicate with cannabis,” said Mr Frazer.

“He is now engaging with pain relief specialists within the health service.”