A CHEF who was self-medicating with cannabis for mental health issues has been fined.

Thomas Swan, of Napier Close in Puncknowl,e appeared before Weymouth Magistrates’ Court on Friday, July 19.

He was charged with possessing a controlled drug of class B – cannabis.

The charge refers to an incident on April 19 this year, where Swan 'attempted to have in his possession cannabis and cannabis oil'.

Swan pleaded guilty to the charge.

Kate Moore, prosecuting, said: “On April 19, a parcel was handed by Royal Mail to the police which was suspected to be drugs.

“Officers confirmed it was cannabis and a black liquid substance which was suspected to be cannabis oil.

“Swan made a full admission that it was bought by him and intended to be used by him.

“He has 12 previous drug convictions, the last on November 3, 2022.”

Lee Christmas, mitigating, said: “The defendant suffers mental health issues.

“He is prescribed medication which doesn’t work and has been self-medicating using cannabis.

“Fortunately, you can now be prescribed cannabis and he is going through the process of getting that prescription.

“Thousands of people are now being prescribed cannabis oil.

“Most of the previous offending is a long time ago and he now works as a head chef and supports his partner.”

Swan was given a fine of £384, ordered to pay a surcharge of £184 and court costs of £85.

The Magistrates also ordered the forfeiture and destruction of the drugs.

Kate Ball, chair of the Magistrates’ bench said: “We wish you well with getting that prescription.”