A 26-year-old woman has been fined £700 for having £39-worth of cannabis.

Layla Charly Callister Fida admitted the possession offence after being caught with 1.3 grams of the drug.

The court heard that Fida was sentenced to community service in July 2019 for cultivating cannabis.

Prosecuting advocate Barry Swain told the court how the latest offence took place on April 22 when police went to Fida’s home at Maycroft Apartments in Ramsey after anonymous information was received regarding a smell of cannabis.

The drug was found at the property and Fida was subsequently arrested.

During an interview she answered ’no comment’ to all questions.

Mr Swain said that there was sometimes criticism of such prosecutions for small amounts but due to the previous conviction there was no alternative disposal available.

Defence advocate Kate Alexander asked for credit to be given for her client’s guilty plea and co-operation with the police.

Ms Alexander said that Fida used the drug to self-medicate for anxiety and depression.

Magistrates ordered that the fine and costs be paid at a rate of £20 per fortnight.