A THIRTY-YEAR-OLD who was caught dealing class A drugs in Haydock to pay off his growing debt sobbed as he was spared jail.

Grant Plumpton, of Kenyons Lane North in Haydock, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Monday morning.

Prosecuting, Iain Criddle told the court that on November 14, 2023, police spotted the 30-year-old on a bicycle approaching a group of people who appeared to be drug users in Haydock.

It was heard that he was subsequently approached by officers but proceeded to run away.

He was later detained by police, who found two wraps of heroin and 29 wraps of crack cocaine in his trousers.

The court heard that the heroin weighed 0.31 grams and had an estimated value of £20, and the 2.62 grams of crack cocaine had a value of £290.

Defending, Carmel Wilde told the court that Plumpton had been given the drugs by his dealer after he had accumulated a ‘drug debt’.

It was heard that the 30-year-old had a ‘traumatic’ upbringing with an ‘alcoholic mother’.

Ms Wilde also told the court that Plumpton had ‘relapsed’ and had accumulated a growing drugs debt that ‘he knew he soon wouldn’t have the means to pay off’.

READ > Two teens avoid jail over 'wounding' attack

Plumpton sobbed in the dock as it was heard that the 30-year-old was the sole financial provider for his wife, who supported him in court, and his two young children.

The court heard that Plumpton has since taken steps to address his drug issues, and while sober has been finding more enjoyment from family activities.

During his sentencing remarks, Judge Anil Murray told Plumpton that he ‘accepts’ he is remorseful and that the 30-year-old has ‘made important changes’ in his life since the offence.

Plumpton was sentenced to 22 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, and must complete 10 rehabilitation activity days.

The 30-year-old must also complete 150 hours of unpaid work.

“If you breach this order either by not doing the elements that I’m attaching to it, or committing more offences, then we will meet again,” said Judge Murray.

“I’m reserving this case, and you will not get another chance.”