A cannabis dealer who a court heard would probably continue smoking the drug has received an eight-month suspended jail term.

Judge Philip Harris-Jenkins told James Snook, 34, of Y Ddôl, Pwllheli, he was concerned to hear of the intention and warned it could trigger the sentence.

“I am giving you an opportunity. You should think long and hard about your misuse of cannabis in the future,” the judge said to Snook when a rehabilitation activity requirement was imposed.

He must do 200 hours unpaid work and pay a £100 surcharge after admitting possessing cannabis with intent to supply.

Prosecutor David Mainstone said at Caernarfon crown court that Snook, a front seat passenger, ran from a car stopped by police last December and threw a plastic bag over a wall.

Cannabis worth £320 was found in the bag and at his home.

“The most damning evidence against the defendant in terms of selling drugs were text messages from his phone,” the lawyer added.

A probation officer said Snook, a supermarket caretaker, provided the drug to friends and they would supply him but the defendant denied money changed hands.

He lived in a flat but a repossession hearing was due to take place.

Defence barrister Anna Pope said he attempted to flee from police because of panic.

Snook had three children and believed he could reduce his drug use himself, the court heard.