A SOUTHAMPTON man who had battled against cannabis abuse has received a 12-month supervision order.

Judge Derwin Hope heard how Grant Griffiths had aroused police suspicions when he and another man suddenly went in opposite directions when they spotted a police car on routine patrol in Mansbridge.

Prosecutor Tammy Mears told Southampton Crown Court how the 31-year-old walked past his car before officers drew alongside him.

Getting out of their vehicle, they smelt cannabis on him and recovered a bag of cannabis he had discarded in the street. Two smaller bags were later seized in his car and in the premises he had just left.

Said to have six previous convictions, Griffiths, of Hightown Towers, Thornhill, admitted possessing cannabis.

He received 12 months supervision and a six-month drug rehabilitation order. He must also pay £250 costs and a £60 surcharge fee.