A MOUNTBLOW man who grew 24 cannabis plants with a street value of £15,000 was “shocked” at the yield of his grow-op.

Kenneth Gillespie, 27, of West Court, appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court last Friday where he admitted setting up the farm at a house in Faifley Road, Clydebank, on November 30, 2015.

He claimed he was producing cannabis resin for “personal use”.

Gillespie also breached two bail orders imposed on him at Glasgow Sheriff Court. He was bailed on May 24, 2018, but broke a curfew on July 31 and August 1.

Prosecutor Martina McGuigan told the court police saw a light shining from the door and a strong smell of cannabis.

She said: “A search warrant was sought and granted and a search revealed 24 fully grown plants with a street value of £15,000.

“There was also the usual equipment, heating lamps and transformers. Gillespie was traced and attended on a voluntary basis at Clydebank police office.”

Defence lawyer Barry Corr added: “He was suffering from extremely bad mental health issues and was smoking cannabis. He decided to grow it rather than buy it. I’m instructed to tell the court it was for personal use and not for supply to others.

“He apologises for his conduct and is very remorseful for what he has done. It was bizarre behaviour.

“He was very shocked at the yield he produced. He has been a recreational cannabis user for most of his adult life. It was an addiction.”

Sheriff John Hamilton deferred sentence until November 7 for the court to obtain a stock report as to whether it was for supply or personal use.

The sheriff told Gillespie: “You have already served a sentence of 27 months, albeit 12 years ago for road traffic matters.

“Your record is literally littered with various offences. I need more information about this offence. There is more to it than meets the eye.”

The sheriff also set November 7 as a proof in mitigation as to whether the cannabis cultivation was for supply or personal use. Bail was continued.