A DUO have been spared immediate jail sentences for setting up a cannabis farm at a house in Bradford’s Broadstone Way - after a court heard they were hardworking family men.

Thomas Robson and Ethan Close were growing 28 plants with a street value of £13,200 at the address when the police forced their way in on November 17, 2021.

Robson, 33, of Flinton Grove, Fagley, Bradford, pleaded guilty at the first opportunity to production of the Class B drug.

Ethan Close, 31, of Daniel Court, Holme Wood, Bradford, was convicted by a jury following a trial.

Bradford Crown Court heard today that the police broke into the house, in the Holme Wood area of the city, after seeing that the windows were blacked out and hearing electric fans. Two bedrooms were being used to grow 28 plants nurtured by a sophisticated feeding and watering system. The electricity supply to the house had been bypassed.

The fingerprints of both men were found at the address.

Robson admitted the plants were his while Close made no comment when questioned.

The court was told that the potential street value of the crop was £13,200 and the wholesale value was up to £9,200.

Both men had a conviction for possession of Class A drugs with intent dating back more than ten years.

Harry Crowson, Robson’s barrister, said he had kept out of trouble since the cannabis offence and used his time very well. He was working to support his family and seeking qualifications to better himself.

Any jail sentence would have to be very short and it would cause devastation to those dependent upon him.

In mitigation for Close, it was said that he was the sole provider for his partner and children. As well as working in the asbestos removal business, he was a valued and respected youth worker, leading a team that helped many vulnerable youngsters. Close also cared for his ill mother, the court was told. The offence was out of character from an otherwise hardworking and productive member of society.

Recorder Geraldine Kelly said it was a joint venture into the drugs business that was foiled by the police.

The men had turned the house into a reasonably sophisticated cannabis grow with 28 plants and the electricity system bypassed.

But they were hardworking, well thought of and with strong personal mitigation.

Robson was sentenced to ten months’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, with 200 hours of unpaid work. Close was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, with 300 hours of unpaid work.