Pensioner who grew cannabis tells court it was for ‘medicinal’ reasons

Gary Chamberlain had difficulties walking and internal problems but strong painkillers prescribed for him by his doctor had not worked.

Chamberlain, 66, of Mythop Road, Marton, pleaded guilty to producing cannabis.

He was given an 18 month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £85 costs with £20 victims’ surcharge by Blackpool magistrates.

When interviewed, Chamberlain said he had purchased the plants as medicinal cannabis plants for his medical ailments.

David Charnley, defending, said Chamberlain, whose son lived in Teeside, had purchased the cannabis plants from an organisation called the Teeside Cannabis Club, that was allowed to grow the drug without being prosecuted.

Once Chamberlain left Teeside, however, there was a problem with him having the cannabis.

Chamberlain would use the cannabis to help alleviate the pain from numerous medical problems he had.