A CANNABIS dealer has avoided jail but drugs and scales seized from him will be destroyed.

Jamie Jones appeared at Chester Crown Court on October 6 to face sentencing for possessing cannabis with intent to supply.

The 30-year-old, of Leyland Walk, Winsford, was found in the town with cannabis in his possession on April 14, 2022, and pleaded guilty to the charge at a hearing on September 5 this year.

At the latest hearing, Recorder Andrew Long handed Jones a six-month jail term, but suspended the sentence for 12 months.

A supervision period of 12 months was also set, while Jones must also provide monthly drug test samples for six months and attend drug rehabilitation review hearings at court.

Recorder Long also ordered Jones to complete 100 hours of unpaid work, to be completed within 12 months. He must also complete up to 35 days of rehabilitation activity.

A forfeiture and destruction order was also made for items seized from Jones, including bags of cannabis, a mobile phone, scales and snap bags.

Jones was also ordered to forfeit £176.96 in seized cash, which will be used by Cheshire Police in the fight against drug crime.

He must also pay a surcharge of £156.