It was estimated that £1,000 worth of equipment was used in a cannabis-producing operation at a Bury house, a court was told.

Michael John Green had set up the operation to provide himself with supplies of the class B drug because he could not afford to buy it from dealers, Bury magistrates were told.

Green (27), of Nuttall Street, Bury, admitted cultivating a quantity of cannabis and was remanded on bail until February 17, pending reports.

Mrs Jacqueline Stott, prosecuting, said police arriving at Green's address saw an unusually bright light illuminating a rear bedroom. Inside they found lights, hydroponic equipment, and other paraphernalia relating to cannabis production, and they found cannabis. Mrs Stott said an estimated value of £1,000 was put on the equipment found at Greens house.

Defending solicitor Mr Martin Pizzey said taking cannabis was a long-term issue with Green who laboured under the misconception that cannabis was on a par with paracetamol and did not carry legal implications any more.

He produced his own cannabis because it was cheaper than buying it off the streets.

Mr Pizzey added that, whatever value the police placed on the equipment, Green would say he only paid £200 for it second-hand.