A RESIDENT at a rehabilitation unit in Darwen self-medicated with cannabis and amphetamine when he was feeling down.

Blackburn magistrates heard the drugs were discovered in Ian Brooks’ room after a member of staff became suspicious because of the way he was behaving.

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Brooks, 50, of Clifton Lawns, Blackburn Road, pleaded guilty to possession of both drugs.

He was given a conditional discharge for 18 months and ordered to pay £85 costs and £20 victim surcharge.

Malcolm Isherwood, prosecuting, said an initial search revealed a Kinder egg containing amphetamine.

The police were called and they found several bags containing cannabis and more amphetamine.

Catherine Fell, defending, said: Brooks suffered from a long-term pzyzophrenia and had spent a considerable period of time in hospitals and units like Clifton Lawns.

“He has been depressed and he accepts he has been self-medicating with these drugs.

“He said he only uses them when he is feeling down.”