Outwell man Anthony Brown admitted to growing 19 cannabis plants to help with health issues

A man who was found growing 19 cannabis plants in three sheds admitted to growing the Class B drug to help with ongoing health problems.

Anthony Brown, 67, of Glenfield Close in Outwell, appeared at Lynn’s Magistrates’ Court on Thursday where he admitted to the offence of producing a Class B drug.

On March 30, police found 19 cannabis plants in three sheds with lighting equipment to help grow them.

Prosecutor Paul Brown said that when the defendant was spoken to by the police, he said that he used to smoke it and got a caution for growing it in the past.

In mitigation, Alison Muir explained that Brown was growing it to help with pain relief.

“He was very much growing it for his own use,” said Ms Muir.

“He has arthritis in his hips and spine, he has been waiting for treatment for two years. He was prescribed medication but it gave him migraines. His health is very poor.”

Ms Muir added: “Two weeks ago he got the medication he needed.”

In relation to Brown’s cannabis consumption, Ms Muir said: “He resulted to numbness.

“It’s not an excuse but a reason why he was growing cannabis.”

Magistrates decided to punish Brown by way of a fine of £200.

He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £80 and court costs of £50.