A MAN, who was found with £18,500 worth of cannabis plants at his home in Maybole, said he had been paid £100 to look after them.

Steven Lawrie, of Kirkland Street, admitted producing the drug between May 1 and May 24 this year. The 21-year-old appeared before Sheriff Mhari Mactaggart at Ayr Sheriff Court last week.

The court heard how police attended Lawrie’s address and could hear loud music from within. 

Depute Fiscal, Jacob Tomnay, said: “Officers could smell cannabis. After knocking on the door for some time they were allowed entry. Following a brief search they found 37 cannabis plants.

“They were worth about £500 each and £18,500 in total. The accused was found within the property with witnesses who were at the party. He made no reply to caution and charge.”

Speaking on his behalf, defence solicitor, Robert Logan, said: “Mr Lawrie is only 21 and is a stupid boy. He was offered £100 to look after them for a week and had invited friends for a party, which caused the plants to be discovered.

"The plants are not his and he cannot dispute the value because he does not know anything about them. He realises this is a serious matter he has got himself in.

“There is a very positive report and he has got a job from Split Aviation. This is a life changing event and he is putting it all in peril.

“I would ask you to step back from a custodial sentence but obviously the decision lies in your hands.”

Addressing the dock, Sheriff Mactaggart, said: “I need some more time to think about this. I will recall this really soon.”

Lawrie has been placed on a community payback order and will remain under supervision for 24 months. He will also complete 230 hours unpaid work within 12 months.