An illegal immigrant who thought the UK’s streets were “paved with gold” was caught harvesting cannabis at a house in Bradford.

Nhon Nguyen, whose parents sold their home in Vietnam to pay to smuggle him into the country, faced jail and deportation, Bradford Crown Court heard yesterday.

Nguyen, 19, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to production of cannabis on August 6.

The court heard he was arrested at a house in Upper Mosscar Street, Barkerend, Bradford, after police received an anonymous tip-off that cannabis was being loaded into a vehicle.

Prosecutor Heather Weir said 200 mature cannabis plants were found in the attic and numerous empty plant pots were discovered in the cellar.

Nguyen was an absconder from immigration control and was remanded back into custody.

The Recorder of Bradford, Judge Roger Thomas QC, said Nguyen would be jailed and then faced deportation.

The case was adjourned until September 27 for more information, including from the UK Border Agency.