A YOUNG Carlisle man who was caught with four different illegal drug at a music festival has been spared an immediate jail sentence - partly because his case took so long to reach a conclusion.

A judge at the city’s crown court said that Danny Green, 24, had done everything he could to reform in the two years and four months since he was arrested at the Beatherder dance festival in Clitheroe, Lancashire.

He was caught with ecstasy, cocaine, cannabis and Diazepam. Green, of Peel Street, Carlisle, admitted possessing those drugs with intent to supply.

Prosecutor Holly Nelson said Green tried to run away when he fell under suspicion but security staff caught him.

Inside his bag police found £118 in cash, along with ecstasy worth £660 and cocaine worth £400. There were smaller amounts of cannabis and Diazepam.

Jeff Smith, defending, said: “This young man - arrested by the police more than two years ago - is now significantly different.”

The lawyer added: “Danny Green had drugs on him that day because he was one of the younger members of the group. Rather than all of the members of the group being in possession of the drugs it was decided it would be acceptable for one of them to accept responsibility.

“Danny Green volunteered.

“That’s why he finds himself before the court.”.

Judge David Potter accepted Green was remorseful. For reasons that had nothing to do with him and everything to do with the delayed investigation, the case had hung over him for more than two years, said Judge Potter.

“In that time,” said the judge, “I am satisfied you have done everything possible to assist yourself.” Judge Potter imposed 24 months jail, suspending the sentence for two years. Green must complete 200 hours of unpaid work.