A DRUG dealer has narrowly escaped an immediate prison sentence after he was caught supplying cannabis to users in Barrow.

Ryan Mason, of Gateshead Street, pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of Class B - cannabis between November 25 2021 and May 25 2022 in Barrow.

At Sessions House, Preston Crown Court on November 11, the 37-year-old was also punished after previously admitting he had been concerned in the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition on the importation of cannabis between May 16 2022 and July 4 2022.

His Honour Judge Knowles Graham Roy imposed an 18-month suspended term of imprisonment for 12 months.

As part of the order, Mason will be required to complete ten mental health treatment requirement days over the next six months.

Judge Knowles also ordered for forfeiture and destruction of the drugs and mobile phone used in the operation.